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Feb. 4, 1940 – Dec. 3, 2023
Robert (Bob) LaPlaunt, 83, of Alpena, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, after a brief illness. He was truly one of a kind and will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Robert E. LaPlaunt was born on Feb. 4, 1940, to the late Richard and Bertha (Lannoo) LaPlaunt. He was born and raised in Cheboygan before moving to Alpena where he met and married the love of his life, Joyce Hodges.
Bob worked as a teacher and counselor for APS where he used his quick wit and funny sense of humor to connect with decades of former junior high students. He didn't go anywhere where he wasn't stopped by a former student who would share a funny memory about "Mr. LaPlaunt." An impassioned Michigan football fan, he cheered them through another Big Ten Championship right up till his final days. He looked forward to summer days fishing for perch on Long Lake and hosting family fish fries with his season's catch. In the winter, he called Hawaiian Isles in Ruskin, Florida home for 25 years where he welcomed family for fun-filled vacations, creating many memories that will be cherished for years to come. Most of all, he loved the Lord and considered it an honor to share his faith with friends and even strangers. He is rejoicing today with his daughter, Sheri, who was waiting to welcome him into the Kingdom of Heaven.
Bob is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joyce; his daughter, Leslie (James) Schmanski; son-in-law, Bruce (Robin) VanWieren; grandchildren, Ross VanWieren (Lindsey Demmink), Paige Bush (CJ), Alex Code, Emily Wilk (Ryan); bonus grandchildren, Jane (fiance Ben Budnik) Schmanski, Jack Schmanski, Madyson Baranowski, Reidyr Demmink; three great-grandsons, Nash, Kane, Miles; his brother, Richard LaPlaunt; sister-in-law, Karen LaPlaunt; several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his beloved daughter, Sheri VanWieren; brother, William LaPlaunt; sister, Norma Best (Carl); sister-in-law, Louise LaPlaunt; and adored lab, Penny Ruth.
Memorial visitation will take place Dec. 16, 2023, at First Assembly of God from 10:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life at 12 p.m. with Pastor Kerry Clerk officiating. Arrangements have been made by Bannan Funeral Home.
Inurnment: Evergreen Cemetery
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to First Assembly of God Church in Alpena.