Section XI is saddened by the sudden passing of Smithtown West football coach Jacque LaPrarie. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this very difficult time.

LaPrarie, 61, a physical education teacher at Tackan Elementary School in Smithtown, was recently inducted into the Sachem Athletic Hall of Fame. He was an All-State quarterback for the Flaming Arrows in the early ’80s and played four years at Rutgers; two as a quarterback and two as a safety.

He is survived by his wife Cynthia and children Dana, Jenny, and Jacque Jr.. Instead of flowers, family and friends are being asked to donate to Jacque Jr.’s college fund. He is a sophomore wide receiver at Stony Brook and will transfer to play at Cortland next season.

Services will be held on Sunday, December 29, from 2-6 p.m. at Branch Funeral Home of Commack on Jericho Turnpike. A mass will be held on Monday, December 30, at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church in Kings Park.