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NALC is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Joseph LaPlaca, former director of retired members, on Dec. 14, 2025, at the age of 91.

Brother LaPlaca began his postal career as a letter carrier on Long Island, NY, where he became a member of Branch 6000 and eventually served as branch president. He went on to serve at NALC Headquarters in Washington, DC, as director of retired members from 1998 to 2001, where he fought to protect and improve the wages and retirement benefits of letter carriers and their families.

Brother LaPlaca is survived by his family and many friends whose lives he touched through his years of dedicated service.

He gave decades of his life to the betterment of letter carriers, and his commitment to those who devoted their careers to the Postal Service will long be remembered.

“NALC mourns the loss of Brother LaPlaca,” NALC President Brian L. Renfroe said. “On behalf of the NALC, I commend his years of devoted service to his branch and to the retired members of our union. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues. He will be greatly missed.”