Maxine "Max" LaFranco, age 97, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, in the Bronx, New York. Her passing marks the close of a life that spanned nearly a century.

Born on September 22, 1927, in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Canada, Maxine spent her early years on the rural prairie during the 1920s and 1930s. These formative years instilled in her a resourcefulness that would carry through a lifetime. Just before the outbreak of World War II, Maxine's family relocated to Hamilton, Ontario. During the war years, Maxine contributed to the war effort by working in various roles across different locations.

She graduated high school in Saskatchewan. In the early 1970's Maxine pursued further education at a business and computer school in New York City. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter that would eventually lead to both personal and professional fulfillment. She went on to work as a banker in Yonkers, New York for many years.

In 1947, fate intervened when Maxine met John "Johnny" LaFranco on a blind date in Hamilton. Their connection was immediate and enduring. Within six months, Johnny introduced Maxine to his family in Yonkers, New York. The couple married on Johnny's birthday—July 24, 1948—in Hamilton. Their union lasted nearly six decades until Johnny's passing in 2007. In a poignant symmetry of life's journey, Maxine passed away exactly 77 years after their wedding day.

Maxine's family is remembered by their son Wayne LaFranco and daughter-in-law Marion LaFranco; grandson Carl LaFranco and his wife Alexandra LaFranco; and great-granddaughter Rose Elizabeth LaFranco. Maxine also held cherished memories of those who preceded them in death: her beloved husband Johnny; parents Rudolph and Pearl Mann; brother Ira Mann; sister-in-law Alma Mann; and many members of the extended LaFranco family.

A gifted crafter with nimble hands and a creative spirit, Maxine found joy in crafting and knitting throughout her life.

A wake will be held on July 30, 2025, from 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM at Oelker-Cox & Sinatra Funeral Home 262 Main Street, Mount Kisco, New York. The interment the next day will be private.