Lawrence V. “Chip” Slater, Jr. age 62, died Tuesday evening surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in Willimantic on September 12, 1958, Chip is predeceased by his father Lawrence, Sr and brother-in-law Steven Lizee.  He is survived by his mother Beth Ann Slater, his soul mate and loving wife of 42 years Bonnie (Altaffer) Slater, his three sons and their spouses Lawrence V. III (young Chip) and Ashley, Josh and Amanda, and Tim and Lily; his siblings and their spouses Gerry (Lesley) Slater, Heidi (Cheryl) Slater, and Kimberlee Slater; his beloved grandchildren, Casey Anne, Kiley, CJ, Loudon, Linkon and Daxton. He also leaves many loved nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, in-laws and lifelong friends Ray Legary and Gerry Pompeii.

Chip graduated from Windham Tech. He worked for many years in the family business, Slater Caterers, and later followed his life-long passion for motorcycles as parts manager for Burt Ives Honda and Columbia Motor Sports.

An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Chip was a flat track racer, recreational rider with his wife and friends, and a lover of all forms of motor sports. Along with his dad, Chip built and raced mini sprints. He also enjoyed RC model airplanes and RC cars. He was a true lover of the outdoors and nature, the ocean, fishing and mountain biking.

Chip was one of the kindest, friendliest, loving men devoted to his family and many dear friends.  He always had a smile and a kind word. He was known for his big bear hugs.  He was the greatest son, husband, brother, father, grandpa and friend to many.

A celebration of his life to be planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made to the Camp Fund c/o First Congregational Church of Willimantic, 199 Valley Street, Willimantic, CT 06226. To sign an online guestbook visit www.potterfuneralhome.com