Guy J. LaPorte

Guy J. LaPorte

RAPID RIVER — Guy J. LaPorte, 68, of Rapid River, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Aurora BayCare Hospital following a brief illness surrounded by his loving family.

Guy was born on December 1, 1956 in Escanaba, Mich., son of Robert Victor LaPorte and E. Eileen (O’Donnell) Burnell. He attended Escanaba High School and graduated in 1975.

He married his high school sweetheart, Debra, on October 1, 1975 in Delta County. They were able to share 49 wonderful years together before his passing.

He entered the US Navy in 1975. He made a career out of his naval service, serving for 22 years altogether. Guy served on the USS Chicago, USS Norton Sound, and USS Cowpens. He worked with the Aegis Radar System and he spent the final year of his service as an instructor at the Great Lakes Naval Base. He was the recipient of numerous medals and awards and achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer during his lengthy career.

He volunteered at the Hope at the Inn Homeless Shelter and the Red Cross. Guy was extremely proud that he was able to go to Ground Zero with the Red Cross after the 9/11 attack.

He lived a life rich with knowledge and passion, embodying the spirit of a lifelong learner. Guy was not only highly intelligent but also had a remarkable gift for sharing his thoughts and insights with others. As an inner peace explorer and a stoic man, with a unique sense of humor, he approached life’s challenges with a calm demeanor and a thoughtful perspective. His kindness and generosity were apparent; he quietly did things for others, never asking for anything in return. A man of many talents, Guy found joy in woodworking and gardening, often spending hours in his garage crafting beautiful pieces. His dedication to his crafts was a testament to his meticulous nature and love for detail. He shared a remarkable 49 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Debra. Their union was a true love story, filled with unwavering support, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Together, they faced life’s challenges with grace and dignity, inspiring all who knew them.

Guy leaves behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and kindness that will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his wisdom, caring, and the countless lives he touched.

Survivors include his wife, Debra LaPorte; children, Phillip (Ashley) LaPorte of Apex, N.C., and Clarice (Justin DeGroot) LaPorte of Escanaba; grandchildren, Skyler LaPorte, Annabella LaPorte, Emma LaPorte, Violet LaPorte, Trevor (Carlie Mattonen) Irving, Max LeDuc, Owen LeDuc, and Jackson LeDuc; great-grandchildren, Isla and Bodhi Irving; siblings, Patrice LaPorte, Mark (Sue) LaPorte, Jeananne Upright, Marta Norman, and Michele LaPorte; brothers-in-law, Gary Forvilly, Dave Forvilly, Randy (Christy) Forvilly; along with several loved nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, Guy is preceded in death by siblings, Robert LaPorte and Sharon Chapman-LaPorte; in-laws, Floyd (Dorothy) Forvilly; brother-in-law, Tom Forvilly; and sisters-in-law, Patsy Forvilly and Mimi Forvilly.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

A message of condolence can be directed toward the family at www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the LaPorte family.