Friends We Will Miss

Robert Aldrich ’63, Sault Ste Marie, passed away January 4, 2026. He began his college education at LSSU and finished it at Central Michigan University before returning to the Sault, where he worked for Sault Area Public Schools with his wife until their retirement. Robert was also active in the Sault Historical Society, Salvation Army, Hospice of the EUP, The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, and other local organizations.

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Dr. Richard Alleman ’87, Homer, passed away March 4, 2026. He graduated from LSSU before attending dental school at the University of Michigan, then operated his own dental practice in Homer for over 50 years. Richard was an avid reader who enjoyed gardening and visiting the UP.

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Daniel Angelelli ’95, Lenox, passed away December 12, 2025. While attending LSSU, Daniel played Laker hockey and was a two-time NCAA National Champion (1992-1994), and continued to support the team long after graduation. He enjoyed music, reading, playing golf, and hockey.

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Robert Baker, Sault Ste Marie, passed away March 5, 2026. He worked at LSSU in addition to running his own HVACR business and teaching in Pickford’s CTE program. Robert was a devoted husband and adoring father devoted to his family and faith.

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Russel Baker ’55, Gray, GA, passed away December 27, 2025. He earned a forestry degree from LSSU, then moved to Georgia, where he worked for Georgia Kraft before starting his own business specializing in construction and farming equipment. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who valued self-reliance and determination.

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William Barber ’55, Hixson, TN, passed away December 3, 2025. He earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from LSSU, then served in the United State Army Corps of Engineers for two years before starting a 35-year career with E.I. DuPont as a chemical engineer. William enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and fishing.

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Kenneth Bodell ’53, Madison, WI, passed away January 25, 2026. In addition earning a bachelor’s degree in forestry management from LSSU, he served in the Coast Guard and as the last keeper of the Au Sable Lighthouse with his wife, Elaine. Kenneth is remembered for his dedication to his community and 34 year career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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Margaret “Maggie” Brannstrom ’85, St Ignace, passed away March 7, 2026. She earned an associate’s degree in data processing and bachelor’s in accounting from LSSU, then worked for the State of Michigan Insurance Bureau and the Michigan Department of Corrections. Maggie was a member of the St. Ignace Moose Lodge and is remembered as a hard worker who enjoyed spending time with friends and family.

Kory Browning ’97, Chesterfield, passed away November 24, 2025. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from LSSU, where he made many lifelong friendships and lasting memories. Kory served 27 years with the Michigan Department of Corrections.

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Marilyn Burton ’66, Sault Ste Marie, passed away April 3, 2026. After attending LSSU, she was active in the Sault Housing Commission, Chippewa County Historical Society, War Memorial Hospital Board, St. Mary’s River B-PAC, MAR-Shunk Enhancement, and was a city commissioner. Marilyn is remembered for her generous heart and deep compassion for others.

Audrey (Bjunes) Copeland ’60, Holland, passed away February 21, 2026. She attended LSSU and the University of Michigan to earn a degree in secondary education, which she used to teach social studies at Lathrop High School and West Valley High School in Fairbanks, AK. She was a lifelong educator who continued her work as a substitute, Lifelong Learning instructor, test proctor, and adjunct professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks after retiring.

George Croy ’65, Appleton, WI, passed away April 15, 2026. He served in the United State Navy before attending LSSU and NMU, then began his teaching career in Wisconsin. George enjoyed ham radio and was one of very few people to achieve American Radio Relay League DXCC #1 for working every country in the world.

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Steven Cryderman ’74, Dafter, passed away November 29, 2025. Following three years in the United States Army and an honorable discharge, he attended and graduated from LSSU, and went on to work for the Michigan Department of Corrections. Steven enjoyed wood carving and collecting antique tools.

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Allen Demroske ’71, Brimley, passed away February 13, 2026. In addition to attending LSSU, he served as a Marine in the Korean War, then worked for years as a biology and physical science teacher at Brimley High School. Allen in remembered for his dedication to his students, who he mentored both academically and athletically.

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Leanne Deuman ’75, Sault Ste Marie, passed away March 29, 2026. Born and raised in the Sault, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from LSSU, and graduated from Thomas M. Cooley Law School before beginning a successful legal career. Leanne was devoted to helping clients through the most difficult moments of their lives, and enjoyed the arts during her free time.

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Tina Dorman ’11, Macomb, passed away March 23, 2026. She earned her nursing degree from LSSU, and went on to work as the Nursing Manager at Therapeutic Guardianship Services. She is remembered for her love for helping others and spending time with family.

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Curtis Eagle ’55, Alpena, passed away January 7, 2026. After graduating from LSSU, he worked for several companies before starting his own business, Eagle Engineering Company, with his wife Joan. Among the many accomplishments in Curtis’ career was his role in developing the Industrial Park on US-23 North.

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Jeffrey Gaus ’09, Kincheloe, passed away December 2, 2025. He graduated from Bay Mills Community College in 2005 with a degree in business administration, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from LSSU in finance and economics. Jeff was a lifelong fan of science fiction and fantasy books who spent his free time playing Dungeons & Dragons and attending festivals and conventions.

Dewayne Ide ’57, Grand Rapids, passed away February 1, 2026. After graduating from LSSU, he served stateside in the United States Army before moving out west to serve in the U.S. Forest Service as a lead civil engineer for over 30 years. Dewayne is remembered for his strong faith and love for his family.

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Lola Jarman ’88, Sault Ste Marie, passed away December 12, 2025. She earned her bachelor’s degree from LSSU while working as paralegal for the State of Michigan. Lola enjoyed spending time with friends and family, as well as watching her favorite shows from the ’90s.

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Janet (Mapes) Kahtava ’67, Warner Robins, GA, passed away November 28, 2025. After attending LSSU, she dedicated over 30 years to teaching elementary students in the Sault Ste Marie Area Public Schools, and worked as a substitute teacher after moving closer to family in Georgia. Janet is remembered for her deep faith, generosity, and endless volunteering.

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Ray Kellogg ’58, Northport, passed away March 20, 2026. After graduating from LSSU, he went back to Northport where he spent his career building homes and was able to fix anything mechanical. Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, woodworking, spending time with family, and traveling with his wife, Thea.

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Thomas Kelly, Sault Ste Marie, passed away February 4, 2025. He spent fifteen years in the Archdiocese of Chicago as a Catholic priest while also earning master’s degrees in sociology and education, then moved to the Sault and served as an Assistant Professor of Sociology at LSSU until his retirement in 1992, when he was granted Professor Emeritus status. Thomas is remembered for his dedication to the church and volunteer work for the Hospice of the EUP.

F. James Knight ’57, Elizabethtown, PA, passed away March 3, 2026. He served in the United States Army for two years before earning a degree in geological engineering from LSSU. He continued his studies at the South Dakota School of Mines in 1963, then began a 34-year career with Gannett Fleming, Inc. James also served as President of the Harrisburg Chapter of Professional Engineers and was a member of the Masons, Paxtang Lions Club, and Paxtang Presbyterian Church.

Willard “Frenchie” LaJoie ’52, Sault Ste Marie, passed away March 14, 2026. An LSSU graduate, Frenchie remained deeply committed to his alma mater throughout his long career at Central Savings Bank, rising from teller to Chairman, and establishing and sustaining scholarships for finance and banking students. In 2004, he was appointed to the LSSU Board of Trustees. He is remembered for his professional achievements, mentorship, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his community.

Gerald LaLonde ’71, Sault Ste Marie, passed away December 21, 2025. He attended LSSU before proudly serving in the United States Navy for four years. Gerald enjoyed fishing, hunting, and coin collecting.

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Anne Marie LaRocca ’52, Ann Arbor, passed away February 8, 2026. Born in the Sault, she graduated from LSSU, and went on to teach students at Willow Run Elementary and Michigan Technical Institute. Anne Marie is remembered for her warmth, mischievous streak, and amazing memorization skills.

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William “Bill” Lockhart ’65, Sault Ste Marie, passed away December 16, 2025. In addition to attending LSSU, he served in the United States Army before dedicating his career to the Sault Area Public Schools as a teacher and coach. Bill is remembered as a dedicated educator, loving family man, and selfless neighbor.

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Robert Mack ’56, Rochelle Park, NJ, passed away December 17, 2025. He attended LSSU, Bergen Community College, and Fairleigh Dickinson University to further his education, and served in the United States Army for three years as a radio repairman. Robert is remembered for his faith and love for sports.

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John “Bill” Markstrom ’54, Sault Ste Marie, passed away January 27, 2026. He served the United States Army in the Korean War in 1950, then studied mechanical engineering at LSSU and used his degree to help build notable local buildings such as Sault Area High School and the LSSU Norris Center. Bill was a lifelong member of Faith Lutheran Church and enjoyed sports, especially golf.

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David McColl ’92, Farmersburg, IN, passed away April 2, 2026. He graduated from LSSU with a degree in criminal justice, and went on to work for Terre Haute Regional Hospital as a Food Service Manager. David enjoyed spending time on the beach, spending time with family, and visiting lighthouses.

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Patrick “Aazhidegaabaw” McCoy ’15, Sault Ste Marie, passed away March 8, 2026. He attended LSSU and NMU while earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Patrick was a dedicated member of the Sault Tribe, serving as a spiritual leader, sundancer, pipecarrier, and teacher known for helping those in need.

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Timothy McDonald ’96, Kalkaska, passed away February 13, 2026. He earned his bachelor’s degree from LSSU, then worked as an electrical engineer for Honeywell and Whirlpool. Timothy enjoyed fishing, photography, and riding his Harley-Davidson.

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Delores McMahon ’94, Mooresville, NC, passed away March 29, 2026. She studied nursing and psychology at LSSU, then went on to work with the elderly in nursing homes. Delores enjoyed walks outside, gardening, camping, and attending her grandchildren’s events.

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Charles Meiser, Sault Ste Marie, passed away February 11, 2026. He moved to the Sault from Indiana to teach at LSSU as an Associate Professor of Business and Economics. He was a lifelong supporter of Laker athletes on the court and on the rink. Charles enjoyed photography, genealogy, and birdwatching.

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Dr. Richard Morrison ’74, Pickford, passed away November 23, 2025. He attended LSSU after teaching science and math at Flint Bentley High School for four years, before being accepted to the University of Michigan Dental School in 1976. Richard went on to serve the Pickford and EUP community as a dentist for 40 years until his retirement, and even longer as a volunteer for numerous organizations.

Robert Ogle ’56, Grand Haven, passed away March 3, 2026. He was an LSSU graduate.

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Randy Patrick ’98, Highland, passed away January 20, 2026. He graduated from LSSU with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, which he used in the programming world while working for several credit unions. Randy is remembered for is unique sense of humor and love for woodworking.

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Mackenzie “Kenzie” (Kalchik) Paul ’22, Sault Ste Marie, passed away January 22, 2026. She was a gifted athlete who gave her all on and off the basketball court at LSSU. She was accepted into Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine and was in her second year when she was diagnosed with AML. Kenzie is remembered for her endless courage, strength, kindness, determination, and faith.

Brian Peppler, Sault Ste Marie, passed away April 3, 2026. He was a lawyer with a deep connection to the Sault community, including LSSU. Brian was known for his mentorship and guidance, as well as his deep support of the Laker Hockey program and the players who passed through it over the years.

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Joseph Saplis ’47, of Wisconsin, passed away January 21, 2026. In addition to graduating from LSSU, he served in the United States Army Corps of Engineers for three years, and went on to work for the Michigan Department of Transportation for 33 years. Joseph was a lifetime learner who continued his education throughout life, earning a master’s degree in civil engineering from MSU and a law degree from Thomas M Cooley Law School.

Peter Savoie ’52, Fenton, passed away January 2, 1935. He graduated from LSSU before serving the United States Marine Corps for two years, and then went on to work a long career with General Motors. Peter enjoyed home projects, family camping trips, golf, and traveling.

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Wayne Schaudt ’05, Grand Ledge, passed away March 28, 2026. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from LSSU, then went on to work at the County Jail in Alpena before transitioning into the role of County Jail Services Unit Jail Inspector for the State of Michigan. Wayne was also a United States Army veteran and devoted member of the Lutheran Church who volunteered in his community after retirement.

Tim Skalla ’70, Niles, passed away December 26, 2025. He attended Lake Superior State University on a wrestling scholarship and, after his competitive career ended, coached at the junior high and high school levels. He is remembered for his fairness, respect for others, and endless volunteering.

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Daniel Somes ’55, Vero Beach, FL, passed away November 23, 2025. Born and raised in the Sault, he earned a degree in chemical engineering from LSSU, then steadily climbed the ranks of the cement industry until he was named President of Medusa Corporation. Daniel enjoyed traveling, enjoying the beach, and celebrating with his family.

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Noel Ann Sutton ’60, Brimley, passed away January 7, 2026. After graduating from LSSU, she co-owned and operated the Racolodge with her husband for many years. Noel enjoyed bowling with league friends, cake decorating, reading, and traveling.

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Amy Swanderski ’16, Mercer, PA, passed away March 28, 2026. She graduated from LSSU with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences, and later earned a degree in counseling which she used to serve multiple agencies in Michigan. Amy enjoyed helping others, thrifting, and spending time with friends and family.

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Raymond Trouvé ’86, Sault Ste Marie, passed away January 15, 2026. He served in the United States Army before moving to the Sault, where he taught ROTC at Sault High, and then psychology at LSSU. Raymond enjoyed reading, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends.

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William Vernagus ’58, Lake Orion, passed away December 6, 2025. He earned an associate’s degree from LSSU after serving in the United States Army for two years. William enjoyed all types of board games, traveling with his family, drawing maps, and spending time with family.

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Paul Verschaeve ’75, Utica, passed away February 7, 2026. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from LSSU, then went on to work for the Ford Motor Company. Paul is remembered for his strong faith and dedication to his community.

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Thomas Veum ’58, Sault Ste Marie, passed away February 16, 2026. He attended LSSU, Western Michigan University, and Wayne State University Law School, and served in the United States Air Force before establishing his own law firm with his father. Thomas was also on the Sanderson Airport Board of Directors, the Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours Board of Directors, a member of the Neomekong Hunting Club, and member of the Sault Savings Bank Board of Directors.

 Sandy (Hill) Wallace ’74, Bogata, TX, passed away December 3, 2025. She graduated from LSSU with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and went on to work as CFO for Basa Resources for more than 30 years. Sandy is remembered for her independence, steady nature, and strong roots.

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Henry Ware ’57, Sault Ste Marie, passed away November 20, 2025. He attended LSSU before completing his master’s degree at NMU. Henry proudly served in the United States Coast Guard, taught in the Sault Area Public Schools, and later worked in his family’s construction business until his retirement.