Lee J.”Uncle Lee” LaFreniere

Lee was born in Negaunee, MI, on September 22nd, 1949, a son of the late Donald J. and Mary L. (Reichel) LaFreniere. He graduated from Negaunee High School, Class of 1967 and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Northern Michigan University.

Lee was a third generation owner of LaFreniere’s Furniture Store in Negaunee, where he worked for 47 years, retiring in 2018. Lee had other business adventures including buying and selling land for Birdseye Land Company, which he was a partner in.

“Uncle Lee” was an avid sports fan, he was the best armchair coach for the Green Bay Packers, he enjoyed golfing at Wawonowin Golf Club, where he was a member for many years.

In his younger years he played city league basketball, and softball in Negaunee.

In his retirement, he enjoyed gardening and watching old classic Western TV shows.

As many know “Uncle Lee” was generous to a fault, and was always willing to help others, and was one of the best story tellers.

Lee is survived by his wife; Janis (Heidemann) LaFreniere, whom he married on May 10, 1997, a son; Wade (Lana) LaFreniere of Negaunee, two grandchildren; Taylor LaFreniere of Lansing, and Brady LaFreniere of Negaunee, five sisters; Fay (Robert Sr.) Hollinshead of Ishpeming, Sue (Scott) Young, of Marquette, Mary Anne (Leon) Chadwick, of Farmington Hills, MI, Pam (Thomas) McCann, of Watton, Kathy (Stuart) Sarasin, of Marquette, two brothers; Mark (Shannon) LaFreniere, of Fort Mills, SC and Paul (Toni) LaFreniere, of Ishpeming, his mother-in- law; Marlene White, sister-in-law; Julie (Julie) Heidemann, brother-in- law; Jeff Heidemann, an Aunt and Uncle Rita and Duane Palomaki, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lee was preceded in death by his first wife; Suzanne R. (Sharp) LaFreniere, his brother; Kenneth Dale LaFreniere and his parents; Don and Mary.

Honoring Lee’s wishes there will be a private family gathering at this time. Because Lee has touched so many hearts through his life there will be a celebration of Lee’s life in the spring. The date will be announced.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Ishpeming Police Department, the Ishpeming Fire Department, and EMS service for their hard efforts and service they provided to Lee.

Lee’s obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.