- Date Of Death: March 27, 2018
- State: Michigan
Harlan D. LaBelle, age 70, of Gladstone, passed away at home on Tuesday, March 27, 2018.
With every right of passage comes a celebration.
Harlan was born May 28, 1947, in Escanaba, the son of Medrick and Dorothy (Gustafson) LaBelle. Upon graduation from Gladstone High School, he joined the USMC and served in Vietnam where he became a decorated Sergeant with an honorable discharge. He received a purple heart, amongst numerous ribbons, recognitions and meritorious commendations. Upon return from Vietnam he attended Bay College where he earned a degree in welding.
During his career he worked at Northern Motors as a parts and body shop mechanic, and later retired as a Heavy Equipment Operator for the now Verso Mill in Escanaba. Harlan enjoyed hunting, fishing, going to camp, working on vehicles, spending time in his garage and visiting with family and friends. In his spare time he was a fabulous cook, an avid cribbage player, a gifted craftsman and wood worker and an excellent marksman. He took great pride in keeping his yard perfectly maintained. We would always joke that he had the tightest yard in Brampton.
With a passion for life and a love for his family and friends, Harlan’s greatest treasures were his children and grandchildren. He had a unique way of always making everyone feel special, and will be deeply missed. His fun-loving personality, sassy sense of humor and laughter will definitely be carried on through those who knew him.
In closing, Harlan’s ever famous words, “This is not a problem, we can do this.”
Harlan is survived by:
2 Daughters: Laurie (Troy) Sovey of Michigan
Rebecca LaBelle of Texas
2 Brothers: Gary (Suzie) LaBelle of North Dakota
Richard (Charlotte) LaBelle of South Carolina
2 Sisters: Linda (Richard) Nelson of Wisconsin
Carol (Richard) Hentz of Wisconsin
4 Grandchildren: Gade (Clayton), Shaynah (Hunter), Harrison, and Lia
And Numerous Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins
In addition to his parents, Harlan was preceded in death by:
2 Brothers: Danny and Larry
Infant Sister
And Granddaughter: Naydeen
