Dr. Claude Fontaine, Oral Surgeon in Arlington, Dies at 56

The following is from Keefe Funeral Home.

Dr. Claude Laramee Fontaine, 56, of Arlington and Dennis, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 18, at home, surrounded by his family.

Revered by his patients for his caring and generosity, Dr. Fontaine was an oral surgeon with a practice in Arlington for over 20 years. He graduated from Boston College in 1979 with a degree in biology and received his DMD in 1982 from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He was recognized as a diplomate by the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Fontaine was a fellow of many dental societies and served on staff at Mt. Auburn Hospital, Lahey Clinic and Franciscan Children’s Hospital.

Away from the office, Claude delighted in time on the water as a boater and fisherman. He loved playing tennis with his children and was a mainstay at second base for the Naturals in the Lexington Senior Softball League for many years. Claude was an active volunteer for Best Buddies and participated in the Pan Mass Challenge.

In the last two years, Claude waged a courageous battle with ALS that inspired his family and friends. He was blessed to receive the support of a team of incredible care givers.

Claude’s greatest passion in life was the joy he took from his role as a husband and father. His humor, spirit and smile will be dearly missed by his wife Cynthia (Rich), and his three children, Scott, Lauren and Alyssa.

Dr. Fontaine was born in Woonsocket, R.I., to the late Herve and Laure (Laramee) Fontaine. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by his sister and her family, Drs. Andree Fontaine and Robert Heinl and their children, of Barrington R.I.

Funeral from the Keefe Funeral Home, 5 Chestnut St. (Route 60, adjacent to St. Agnes Church), ARLINGTON, on Thursday at 9 a.m.  Funeral mass in Saint Agnes Church at 10 a.m.  Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours Wednesday 4-8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Fontaine’s memory can be made to Compassionate Care ALS (www.ccals.org), PO Box 1052, West Falmouth, MA 02574, Tufts School of Dental Medicine, 136 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02111 or Boston College, Cadigan Alumni Center, 140 Commonwealth Ave., Chestnut Hill, MA 02467.