Harlan D. LaBelle

Resided in Gladstone, MI
Died March 27, 2018

Harlan D. LaBelle, age 70, of Gladstone, passed away at home on Tuesday, March 27, 2018.

With every right of passage comes a celebration. A celebration of life, of love, of new opportunities. Let us not be sad for what has left, but embrace the memories and celebrate the life of Harlan David LaBelle. He wouldn’t want it any other way.

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

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 from 11:00 AM until 12:30 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Military Honors will be presented by the Gladstone American Legion Post 71 at 12:30 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the LaBelle family.

15 Tributes for “Harlan D. LaBelle”

    Harlan was a good dude. Always smiling. Loved his kids & grandkids; we’ll miss him.
    -Berthaume family

    Harlan and I met working at the mill. Good man, always willing to lend a helping hand. My deepest sympathy to the family for your loss. Rest in peace my brother.

    My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends. Carol may his beautiful memories bring some peace and joy to your heart. Feel him in the wind, in the warmth of the sun on your face, in the sounds of the birds and in the flight of the butterfly. His presence is always near. ❤️

    He was a very kind soul. I will remember his sassy sense of humor and the fun times we had when I lived in Gladstone not far from his home. My prayers are with you and your family from the South. Sarah (Wirtz) Lane.

    Our deepest sympathy to the family of Harlen. So sorry we cannot make it to his wake, but as you know we will be laying our father to rest at this time.
    Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
    Julie and Mike Elliott

    Rest in peace Brother. I’ll always remember all the good as well as the not so good times we had growing up. The time we played golf in Myrtle Beach and you said it was hot so you took off your shirt. Enjoyed our time with you and your girls not long ago, which again was at Myrtle Beach. We did get into some mischief growing up but I’ll keep that between us.

    I have read all of these tributes to Harlan and I’m extremely touched by all the kind words.. He was one of a kind, always had a great sense of humor..whether we thought it was funny or not. Since the loss of Harlan we (our siblings) also lost our sister Linda in May..My hope is they are at peace in the heavenly home they now share with our parents and Danny and Jimmy..❤ till we meet again..your sister Carol

    Thank you everyone for all of the warm wishes, memories and thoughts. Harlan (dad) was the king of sass, and definitely had a contagious smile and laugh. Missing you Dad~Laur

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