Donald LaClair

Donald Wayne LaClair, 81, died Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at his residence surrounded by loving family.

Donald was born October 30, 1939 in Flint, Michigan to William and Edna Retha (Gilbert) LaClair.

Donald lost his parents at a young age and as a teen, he hitched hiked to Waco, Texas and lived and worked on the Newman ranch, where he fell in love with farming. In 1964 he moved back to Michigan and hired into General Motors. He worked in many positions, with his time working in the foundry, his favorite. He retired after 30 years at GM and moved to Cheboygan where he met Lynda Carlson. In May of 1991 they married and their families joined together. They lived in Afton on a farm and raised sheep and rabbits for the 4-H program. In 1998 they opened The Cheboygan Craft and Ceramic Supply Store, where Don learned how to pour ceramics and run a successful business. They sold the store 3 years later and traveled around the United States living in Mississippi, Texas, Florida, Louisiana, and back to Michigan. Don was very active in community theater. He played in more than 30 productions in 5 different states usually stealing the show with his animated facial expression and charisma. Among his favorites was his starring role in Escanaba in da moonlight, Rumors, The Sting, and Plan 9 from Outer Space. He and his wife traveled and lived in many states after retirement, settling in Charlotte, Michigan where he was an active member of the Eaton Area Senior Center. He enjoyed playing cards and calling bingo. His kindness and friendly smile will be greatly missed.

He leaves behind his cherished wife, Lynda; children, Michael (Vikki) LaClair, Lisa (Joe) Fiddie, Denice (Richard) Baker, Randy (Tracy) Carlson, Kelly (Ronald) Leonard, Kevin (Helen) LaClair, and Diana (Tim) Euler; grandchildren, Kari Ray, Renee (Eric) Wert, Ryan Leonard, Logan and Megan LaClair, Jo-Lee (Jason) Barnes, Jordan (Katie) Williams, Zack LaClair, Courtney, Lindsey and Zac Carlson, Nick Baker, Tyler Leonard, Tim (Heather) Euler, and Bryce, Isaac Euler, Kyle LaClair; great grandchildren, Eva Luna, Olivia and David Craig, Aubree and Adalae Williams, Hunter LaClair, Oaklee Williams, Ashton and Grace Wert, and Maddison Leonard.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, William LaClair Jr., Charles Wright; his daughter April LaClair and son-in-law Ronald Leonard.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 20, 2021 at 1 p.m. in Cheboygan, MI.