Robert Lawrence LaFave

Robert “Bob” Lawrence LaFave. Age 79 of Lansing Michigan, born September 19, 1940, died August 29, 2020 peacefully in his home after a short battle with cancer. Bob graduated from Resurrection High School in Lansing where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Elaine (Lonier) LaFave. Bob was a committed husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

For 26 years, Bob was the owner of Custom Cycles Accessories in Lansing. During his time as a business owner, he enjoyed bullsh***ing with everyone that came through the door. There was always a pot of coffee brewing and a welcoming “Hello”. After retirement, his passion to be with others continued by selling eggs, honey, and maple syrup. Bob enjoyed his church family and was a faithful member of the St. John’s Student Center in East Lansing.

As a young man, he was a Big Brother and a member of the Family Motorcycle Club. For many years, he also mowed grass at St. Francis Retreat Center. While he raised his children, he was the neighborhood dad; the man with all the fun toys and fatherly advice. After moving from DeWitt to the farmhouse in Lansing, Bob continued tinkering on motorcycles and small engines. He loved to share a Coffee Royal with his friend Frank or any willing guest. He loved hunting on his property and sharing this joy with others. Bob loved a competitive card game and would make his opponents “shake in their boots”. Bob regularly donated blood and platelets for the Red Cross, totaling more than 50 gallons.

Most of all, Bob enjoyed spending time with his family. Bob’s greatest joy was his seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was often lovingly called Grumpy, Gramps, Big Guy, and Papa. He loved his grandchildren more than anything and the feeling was mutual.

Bob is survived by his wife, Elaine, of 60 years; daughters Maria (Steve) Peak and Lisa (Steve) Barnett, and daughter-in-law Lori LaFave; seven grandchildren Collin (Emily Luyk) Peak, Chet (Amanda) LaFave, Marissa Peak, Brek (Emma) LaFave, Jake (Katie) Barnett, Lena Peak, and Sy Barnett; two great grandchildren, Nicholas and Mabel LaFave; siblings Richard (Susie) LaFave and Mary (Tom) Barnes, and sister-in-law Patricia LaFave; plus a multitude of nieces and nephews. Bob is preceded in death by his only son, Nicholas LaFave, brother Frank LaFave, and parents Raymond and Vera LaFave.

Visitation will be held on September 2, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. prior to the Catholic Mass Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Thomas Aquinas, 955 Alton Rd, East Lansing, MI. There will be an outside luncheon gathering to celebrate Bob’s life at his home after funeral services from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The family acknowledges that current public health conditions may prevent some from attending the service in person; know that your presence is with them in spirit.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated for House of Ruth in Charlotte where Bob’s special friend Sean lives. Checks can be made out to House of Ruth and sent to Maria Peak at 5701 S. Stine Road, Olivet, MI 49076.