George LaJoice

George LaJoice

George F. LaJoice, 97, of Owosso, was an oiler on state ferries for 20 years, then worked as a heavy machine operator for the state.

Mr. LaJoice, formerly of St. Ignace and Chesaning, passed away Tuesday, January 2, 2007, at the Ashley Care Center in Ashley.

He was born April 3, 1909, in St. Ignace, the son of James and Jane (nee St. Onge) LaJoice.

On September 1, 1936, he married Margaret Gallagher in St. Ignace, and in 2006 they celebrated their 70th anniversary.

An oiler on state ferries for 20 years, Mr. LaJoice then worked as a heavy machine operator for 17 years, retiring in 1972.

Mr. LaJoice loved being outdoors and was most happy hunting or picking berries.

Survivors include his wife, Margaret; children and their families, Robert and Nancy LaJoice of Jackson, Wisconsin, Patrick and Rose Ann LaJoice of Eaton Rapids, Anthony and Debra LaJoice of Linden, and Linda Niemi of Saginaw; 16 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Mr. LaJoice was predeceased by his parents, a daughter, Myrna King, a son-in-law, Edward Niemi, two sisters, and four brothers.

The family received friends at Nelson-House Funeral Home in Owosso Thursday, January 4, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a rosary prayer at 8 p.m. Services were held at 2 p.m., Friday, January 5, at the funeral home, with Monsignor George Michalek. Burial will be at St. Paul Cemetery in Owosso.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ashley Care Center.