Donald Gene Lajoie

Donald Gene LaJoie, Sr. of Caro, age 76, passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2013 at his residence. Don was born October 26, 1936 in Caro, the son of the late Raymond and Ellen (Walsh) LaJoie. In 1956, Don joined the U.S. Army and served three distinct enlistments totaling almost twelve years. He was united in marriage with the former Barbara Ailing on July 29, 1967 in Mayville. Don worked as a seasonal employee at Michigan Sugar and was a truck driver, ending up at Sargent Sand Company where he worked as a plant operator until his retirement. Throughout his working career, he was also employed with Six L's. Don enjoyed playing the guitar, snowmobiling and fishing. He was a member of the Caro American Legion Post #7. Donald is survived by his wife, Barbara of Caro; his children, Deanna Thomas of Davison, Billy LaJoie (Becky Bollon) of Unionville, Kris Hill of Caro, Kim (Jeff) Brinkman of Caro, Karie (Jeff) Simmons of Caro; Donald and Barbara also raised Dale LaJoie and Yvonne LaJoie Holley like their own children; his grandchildren, Ryan LaJoie, Thomas (Ashley) LaJoie, Patrick Hill (Katie DeLeary), Brittany (Josh) Thompson, Randy (Sara) Brinkman, Garrett Brinkman, Jessica Simmons, Jeremy (Terisa) Simmons; ten great-grandchildren; his siblings, Bernice Bashton of New Mexico, Mary (Darrel) Asay of Colorado, Esther (Jack) Smith of Caro, Roseann LaJoie of Colorado, Edward (Peggy) LaJoie of Cass City, George LaJoie of Caro, Robert (Maxine) LaJoie of Caro; several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by a son, Donald G. LaJoie, Jr.; a grandson, Aaron Anthony Thomas; his siblings, Elaine Phillips, Thomas LaJoie, Walter "Bud" LaJoie, Margaret Kemp, and Charles J. LaJoie; as well as a nephew, Wayne LaJoie. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2013 at the Ellington Township Cemetery with Rev. Jessica Marie Simmons officiating. In keeping with Don's wishes, cremation has taken place. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Caro American Legion Post #7. Service Information Date: Saturday, October 26, 2013 Time: 11:00 am A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 26, 2013 at the Ellington Township Cemetery.