Melvin J. LaFernier

January 29, 1950 - August 16, 2019

Melvin J. LaFernier Sr., age 69, of L’Anse, MI passed away Friday, August 16, 2019 at Houghton County Medical Care Facility, Hancock, MI. He was born in Hancock, MI on January 29, 1950 the son of the late Leslie and Mildred (Forcia) LaFernier. Melvin graduated from Baraga High School. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War. Melvin was a member of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and had worked for Tribal Maintenance as a laborer. Melvin enjoyed restoring classic cars and riding 4-wheelers. Melvin is survived by his children Melvin (Jenna) LaFernier, Jr. of Milford, MI and Sonya (Porter) Dowler of Baraga, MI, 3 grandchildren, brother Stanley “Butch” LaFernier of Baraga, MI, sisters Shirley (Bob) Velmer of Baraga, MI and Helen Tollefson of Skanee, MI. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial funeral services for Melvin will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, August 30, 2019 at the Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse, MI with Father Corey Litzner officiating. The family will greet friends at the funeral chapel on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service. Immediately following the funeral service, military honors and graveside services will be held in the Assinins Cemetery, Assinins, MI. The family invites friends to join them for fellowship and a luncheon at the Ojibwa Senior Center in Baraga following interment. Melvin’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L'Anse, MI has been entrusted with the funeral services.