Richard LaVigne, age 69, of 1704 Michigan Avenue, Gladstone, MI died Monday evening May 29, 2006 at home following a lengthy illness.

Richard was born June 18, 1936 in Gladstone the son of Leo and Bernadette (Stevens) LaVigne Sr. He was raised in Gladstone before serving in the U.S. Army. He also served in the Michigan National Guard. Richard was the co-owner of Handyman Services for many years and he also had worked at American Timber Homes and also did security work for Smith Security in Beloit, WI.

Richard’s hobbies included fishing, hunting, working word puzzles, collecting cans, picking berries and cooking.

Survivors include:

His wife, the former Mary Hultquist, who he married on December 28, 1973 in Escanaba.

3 Sons: Daniel LaVigne of Green Bay, WI; Ricky LaVigne of Gladstone, MI; Matthew LaVigne of Gladstone

5 Daughters: Cynthia (Robert) Anderson of Roscoe, IL; Tami (Jim) Robson of Beloit, WI; Rev. Tina (Ron) Schuenke of Rockford, IL; Bonnie LaVigne of Gwinn, MI; Christina (Kelly) Porath of Gladstone

2 Brothers: Kenneth (Sharon) LaVigne of Gladstone; Leo (Janet) LaVigne Jr. of Escanaba

2 Sisters: Margaret Walitalo of Bark River, MI; Annie (Bill) Monville of Gladstone, MI

17 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren

Numerous nieces and nephews

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his daughter, Annette and his brother Robert.

Richard’s family will receive friends on Saturday from 12:00 noon to 1:45 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military rites conducted by the Gladstone American Legion Post #71 will follow at 1:45 P.M. Funeral services celebrating the life of Richard LaVigne will follow at 2:00 P.M. at the Skradski Funeral Home with Rev. Tina Schuenke officiating. Burial will be in Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells Twp.