Lois G. LaBrecque

She was born August 25, 1930, in Iron Mountain, Michigan, to Carl and Mae (Walz) Friberg, and graduated from Florence High School in Wisconsin in 1948. Lois earned her teaching certificate from Northern Michigan University in 1952 and dedicated her life to education. She taught in L’Anse, Escanaba, and Shorewood, Wisconsin, before returning to Marquette, where she served as a substitute teacher for many years-most often at Bothwell Middle School. She later taught at the Michigan Job Corps until her retirement in 2000.

On July 14, 1967, she married Joseph Irwin LaBrecque at St. Christopher Catholic Church. Together they built a warm and welcoming home, hosting dinners and celebrations for family and friends, and traveling often. Their son, Joe, was the center of their world, and becoming parents was one of their greatest joys.

Lois especially cherished being a grandmother. Her granddaughter, Lauren, was the light of her life. She shared with her a love of reading, the joy of baking cookies, the importance of giving back to the community, and countless moments of laughter and encouragement.

After her husband’s passing in 2003, Lois reconnected with her childhood friend, the late Ron Helgren. They spent many happy years together, wintering in Florida and enjoying summers filled with community events, friends, and time in nature at Ron’s river camp.

Lois was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church and will be remembered for her kindness, intelligence, and gentle spirit.

She is survived by her son, Joe S. (Rebecca) LaBrecque of Marquette; and her granddaughter, Lauren LaBrecque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph I. LaBrecque; and her dear companion, Ron Helgren.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Molly Hunter officiating. A luncheon will follow in Magnuson Hall. Interment will take place in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to Messiah Lutheran Church or the Peter White Public Library.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at canalefuneral.com