Barbara Ann LaFave

family by her side. Barbara was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 28, 1929, to Archie and

Marie King. Barbara graduated from St. Charles Borromeo High School and furthered her

education at Mercy College and Mount Carmel Mercy Hospital to obtain a registered nursing

degree. During this time Barbara met her beloved husband Philip Duane LaFave. The two

married in 1951.

Barbara worked at St. Joseph's Hospital in Detroit and Straith Hospital /Clinic in Southfield

where she served as a surgical nurse totaling 45 years.

Barbara was a devoted Catholic and an active member within St. Charles of Borromeo of

Detroit, Our Lady Queen of Hope of Detroit, St. Andrew’s of Rochester Hills, and Sacred Heart

of Elk Rapids parishes. Barbara loved to spend time with her family especially outdoors with

swimming, skating, and nature walks. Known as Oma to her grandchildren, she made the best

apple pies, shared her love of music, attended many recitals and sporting events, and always

encouraged personal best. Barbara was active in furniture restoration, yard work, and stained

glass making.

Barbara is survived by; daughters, Mary Grace (Bruce) Everett of Bancroft, Anne (William)

White of Williamsburg, and Denise (Peter) Smyk of Holland; son Chip (Carol) LaFave of

Monroe, North Carolina; grandchildren, Amanda, Bill, Melanie, Neil, Mae, Joel, Ellen, Luke,

Claire, Matt, Anna, and Drew; great grandchild Natalie Grace; sisters Betty Korol, Dorothy

Maloney, and brother A. David King. Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband

Philip of 65 years; her parents; and grandson Joseph Philip White.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on April 1, 2019, at 12:15 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic

Church in Elk Rapids with Father Robert Zuchowski officiating. The Rite of Committal will occur

later in the spring at Sacred Heart Cemetery. A vigil service will be held on Sunday, March 31,

2019, at 7pm at Sacred Heart church. Memorial contributions may be made to Mother Cabrini

League and mass intentions for the deceased.