Brattleboro- Francois Bernard LaBelle, 79, of South Main Street, died peacefully Thursday afternoon, May 5, 2011 at Pine Heights Nursing Home following a period of failing health. Mr. LaBelle was born in East Franklin, VT on May 26, 1931 the son of Rudolph and Corilla (Cloutier) LaBelle. He was raised and educated in East Franklin and later moved to Brattleboro in 1964. He had been employed as a maintenance mechanic at Cersosimo Lumber Company where he retired from following 35 faithful and dedicated years with the company. Previously he had worked at the former Estey Organ Company on Birge Street. A devout Catholic, he was a longtime communicant of Saint Michael's Roman Catholic Church. An ardent outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and time shared with his family. He was mechanically inclined, could fix or repair just about anything and was well known as a "jack of all trades." On July 5, 1952 at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Sheldon Springs, VT he was married to Theresa H. Williams who survives. Besides his loving wife of almost 59 years he leaves one daughter, Elizabeth Therrien of Keene, four sons, Michael LaBelle of West Wardsboro, Andrew LaBelle of Keene, James LaBelle of Brattleboro and Scott LaBelle of Hinsdale, one brother, Andrew Clement LaBelle of Milford, NH, and seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Additionally he is survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by two daughters, Angela LaBelle and Jacqueline Tatro and five brothers and one sister. The Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 11:00 A.M. at Saint Michael's Catholic Church with Rev. Richard O'Donnell, pastor, celebrant. Burial will be in Saint Michael's Parish Cemetery. Friends are invited to call at the Atamaniuk Funeral Home on Monday from 6 to 8 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mr. LaBelle's name may be made to, Saint Michael's School, 48 Walnut St. Brattleboro, VT 05301 in care of Elaine Beam, principal.