Madawaska, Maine - Joseph W. LaChance, 80, passed away at his home on February 26, 2026. He was born in Rome, Italy, on September 29, 1945, son of the late Wilfred and Anita (Sardoz) LaChance.

Joe was a Machine Tender at Twin Rivers for 38 years and a successful entrepreneur in Madawaska. He was the president and founder of the Madawaska Four Corners Park. Joe was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, loved riding his ATV and spending time with his family. He was very proud of his community and made it his goal to promote and support the businesses of his beloved town.

He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Diane (Bouchard) LaChance of Madawaska; one son, James LaChance of Dover, FL; three grandchildren, Tyler LaChance of Dover, FL, Sierra Lizotte of Tampa, FL, and Kayla LaChance of Riverview, FL; three siblings, John LaChance of Carson, CA, Rita (LaChance) Pelletier and her husband, Ron, of Madawaska, and Bert LaChance of Madawaska; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Joe was predeceased by one daughter, Jenny Lizotte; and one niece, Gina Cote.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on March 20, 2026, at St. Thomas Church in Madawaska. Relatives and friends may offer their condolences at the church before the Mass on Friday from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Interment will be held in the Parish cemetery later in the spring. A celebration of life will be held at the Four Corners Park in Madawaska and will be announced at a later date. To keep Joe's legacy thriving and keep his dream alive, you may donate to Madawaska Four Corners Park through their website at madawaskafourcorners.org or to P.O. Box 261, Madawaska, ME 04756. To share condolences online, please visit lajoiefuneralhome.com.