Donald Gene LaFave's Obituary
Mr. Donald Gene LaFave, age 85, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 in Muskegon, Michigan. Don was born in Muskegon on December 14, 1938, baptized at Sacred Hart Catholic Church, and graduated from Muskegon Catholic High School in 1957. On June 29, 1963, Don married the former Sally Ann Jacobson. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force and was stationed in Japan during the end of the Vietnam War. Don was employed by the Michigan Department of Corrections as a prison guard for the Brooks Correctional Facility for 17 years prior to his retirement. He had previously been employed by Dresser Industries for 15 years. Don also spent 20 years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, having helped build 99 homes. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed hunting. Don was also a talented bowler, throwing three “300” (perfect) games, and was part of several local leagues. He will be missed by his loving wife of 61 years, Sally; two daughters, Shawn (Jeff) Church and Meredith (Joshua Larson) LaFave; six grandchildren, Skylar, Jeffrey Jr., Marley, Savannah, Le-Anna, and Maddox; two step-grandchildren, Jasmine and Hailey; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Leola Willis and four siblings, Marge Umlor, Aubrey LaFave, Lola Somerville, and Larry Willis. MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be celebrated 11:00 AM Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (239 West Clay, Muskegon, MI 49440) with Fr. Kyle Kilpatrick presiding. MEMORIALS in memory of Don may be directed to Habitat for Humanity. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
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