Claude "Frenchy" Lapalme

Claude “Frenchy” Lapalme age 80, of Neillsville, WI, died Sunday, November 17, 2024, at his residence.

Claude Joseph Charles Lapalme was born on May 29, 1944 in St. Jean, Quebec, Canada the son of Roger and Rita (Fortin) Lapalme. Claude enlisted into the United States Army in 1962 to serve his country during the Cuban Missile Crisis. On July 17, 1964, he was united in marriage to Leopoldine Probst in Augsburg, Germany. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1967. They settled in Milwaukee, WI, and raised their son, Raymond. Claude worked for 12 years as a machinist and in setup at the Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Company. He also worked for Milwaukee Valve for many years as the Machine Shop Manager. In the 1970’s Claude, and his family, began visiting the Neillsville area. In 1980, they purchased 81 acres on the Black River just outside of Neillsville, where they built their home. Frenchy was very grateful for his friends and neighbors in the area.

Claude was a man of many talents. Among many other things, he was skilled in karate. He enjoyed flying, and held both a personal and commercial flying license. He also enjoyed skiing throughout Europe and the United States, and once a year he and his family would sail on Lake Michigan from Milwaukee to Sturgeon Bay.

He is survived by his wife, Leopoldine, a son, Raymond and two brothers, Jacques and Real Lapalme.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Gill.

As per Claude’s request, there will be no public funeral service.

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

The Gesche Funeral Home is assisting Claude’s family.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.