Francis Ronald LaForge

Francis Ronald LaForge (Frank, Frankie, Fearless Frank, Binky) age 66, passed away August 15, 2023, after a long and unbelievably hard fought battle with cancer. He was courageous through every step of his journey while his girl, Cheryl Miller, held his hand every step of the way.

Frank was born in New York, December 2, 1956, to Ronald and Theresa LaForge. The first of their three boys, Frank spent time learning and working at the first transmission shop in the Bronx, with his Dad. Frank loved cars. He cherished his trips to the Indy 500 and all races he tripped with his family and friends.

Frank’s life was filled with all sorts of adventure; he loved all sorts of music, he played piano, organ, harmonica - all self taught. Although doo-wop was one of his favorites, the blues always won his heart. Especially, when his brother Guy “Buck” was playing out.

The beach was Frank’s tranquil place. He loved to fish, be it on the shore, or while captaining a boat, any old pier would do too. Finding shells and learning about the Calusa Indians was his passion, and he loved to teach and share his knowledge.

Frank has been published academically on the Calusa Indians; he was invited to a symposium to discuss his shells that were used for multiple tools and shadows and his thoughts on Calusa techniques. He was in the process of writing a book that would have been filled with decades of research, beachcombing discoveries, and a myriad of artifacts. Frank coined the phrase, “Shadow Totem”, to explain the faces and shadows that were created by the Calusa via carvings in the shells.

In Naples, Florida, Frank had his own tour guide program as the local specialist on Calusa Indians, and their shells.

Frank is preceded in death by his Father, Ronald LaForge and stepfather John DeBaun. Frank is survived by his amazing mother, Theresa DeBaun LaForge, his Uncle Ronald and Aunt Elyse DePiro, two brothers, Ronald “Guy” LaForge (Jean), and John (J) LaForge (Marne), sons, Daniel and Jesse, and his lovely girlfriend, Cheryl Miller. Also, not to be forgotten are all the amazing nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that have forever touched Frank’s life.

Services will be held September 23, 2023 at Unity Church of Naples located at 2000 Unity Way, Naples, FL starting promptly at 11 AM. Celebration of life will immediately proceed services at the Unity campus. Small bites and soft drinks will be provided by family.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

Tidewell Foundation

3550 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239

The family is forever thankful for their unwavering support during this difficult time.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kayspongerpc.com for the LaForge family.