Obituary of Irene J. LaPlante
Irene LaPlante was born in Amsterdam, New York, on December 13, 1922. She was the daughter of the late Monika and Lewis Kimont. Irene graduated from Wilbur H. Lynch High School in Amsterdam, New York, in 1940. In 1941, Irene proudly graduated from the Mildred Elley Business College in Albany, New York.
After graduation, Irene was employed by the Bigelow-Sanford Carpet Company in Amsterdam as a secretary to the Plant Engineer. She also worked at the Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in Niskayuna, New York, retiring in 1989 after 29 years of service.
--
Throughout her life, Irene dedicated much of her time to helping her children and grandchildren achieve their dreams. Most notably were her unforgettable contributions to her son and daughter-in-law at Stepping Stones. She was always everyone’s “number one cheerleader” and supported her loved ones unconditionally. Irene was a spectacular Woman, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt and Friend.
Some of her hobbies included traveling the world, gardening, and dreaming up hilarious, impractical inventions. Irene was also known for her extensive holiday decorating and Snowbabies collection, as seen in everyone's favorite video, “Granny’s Christmas Crib.”
Without a doubt, Irene will be best remembered for her vivacious and infectious personality. Her spunky sense of humor could brighten anyone’s day. If you asked Irene what her secret was to living to 98 years old, she would respond with a simple answer: “Red wine and slot machines.”
Irene/Granny- We love you and miss you more than anything. You were our best friend and always kept us grounded. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are eternally grateful to have been loved by you.
--
Irene was predeceased by her son Gary and daughter Carol (Roger) Travis. Survivors include her son Charles (Veronika) LaPlante, six grandchildren; Monika and Erika LaPlante, Stacey (Matthew) Calkins, Hannah (John) Moore, Nicole (Micah) Rivera, and David LaPlante, and five great-grandchildren; R.J. Sicard, Ava Calkins, and Nickolas, Emma and Erin Moore.
Due to current restrictions, a public memorial service will not be held at this time. There will be a memorial service at a later date to be announced.