Larry LaFranchi

Larry Charles La Franchi born December 11, 1950 to parents Charlie & Fay La Franchi, in Sebastopol California. Larry past, peacefully at home February 5, 2024.             

Larry’s young years were spent in central California engulfed in dairy farming and outdoor activities. Growing up, his hobbies included baseball, bass violin, and abalone fishing. At a young age Larry developed a passion for artifact hunting.

Larry moved to Coquille Oregon with his family in the early 60s. They owned a dairy farm on North Bank Lane. Larry attended Coquille High and graduated in class of 1969.  Larry’s love of outdoors, and hunting continued to grow. After high school Larry attended Multiple Universities and eventually graduated with an associates art degree. He relocated to Cody, Wyoming where he spent years ranching and ultimately becoming a hunting guide.  Years later Larry’s passion for nature and animals led him to Wisconsin where he learned the trade of taxidermy.  After graduating from taxidermy school he returned to Meeteetse, Wyoming in 1981 to practice his new skill. While there he had a hand in rediscovering, what was thought to be an extinct black footed ferret, when a farmer brought it to his shop.

In 1984, Larry wanted to be closer to family and moved back to coquille, Oregon. There he started La Franchi’s Taxidermy.  After decades of practicing the art of taxidermy, Larry perfected multiple species and different forms of mounts. His true skill was that he never stopped wanting to learn something new. He always had a new hobby of some sort or a new skill he learned along the way. He was an avid collector of guns, fishing plugs, petrified butterflies and insects, artifacts and arrowheads. Larry was a talented artist at sculpting, bronzing, and smithing of jewelry. He shared his enthusiasm for all things nature with his family and his tall tales will never be forgotten.

Larry is survived by his Mother Fay La Franchi, Brother Ron La Franchi and his wife Kelly, and numerous nieces and nephews.

There was a small graveside service at the Norway Cemetery in Myrtle Point February 13th, 2024

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