Edwin Joseph LaDuke

Edwin Joseph LaDuke, age 97, of Livonia, Michigan passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023. Ed was born in River Rouge, Michigan, on May 23, 1926 to the late Helen and Victor LaDuke, and grew up in Lincoln Park.

Ed had a kind and patient soul. He was a memorable man, with many friendships. Ed had a love for fishing, hunting, and spending his summers camping with his family. He enjoyed Westerns, particularly starring John Wayne.

Ed was a very determined man. Anything he set his mind to, he would accomplish. After returning from WWII, he began pre-med studies before earning a degree in business relations. When he was offered a job teaching high school in the Allen Park/Melvindale system, his future changed direction. Having finally discovered his love for education, Ed went on to earn his Education Specialist Degree and became an elementary principal with Livonia Public Schools where he enjoyed a career spanning over 40 years.

Above all else, Ed was a family man. He enjoyed being around his family and loved partaking in many of his children's extracurricular activities. His love of Christmas inspired him to spend endless hours decorating trees and entertaining the children of his friends and neighbors. After his retirement, he focused on becoming an award winning duck carver.

Ed was an incredible husband of 72 years, as well as loving father, grandfather, and friend. He will never be forgotten for all the amazing memories he created with them throughout his 97 years.

Edwin is survived by his children: David, Victor (Joanne), and MaryBeth (Richard); grandchildren: Karl (Caroline), Josh (Jessi), and Megan (Nick); great grandchild, Luca; nephews: Tom and Dan (Janie); niece, Susan (Paul); and his honorary grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his wife, Claire, and parents: Helen and Victor LaDuke.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023 from 3pm-8pm at Harry J Will Funeral Home - 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia with a rosary said at 7:00pm. A funeral mass will be on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 10:30am with a visitation prior at 10am at St. Michael the Archangel Parish - 11441 Hubbard, Livonia. Edwin will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery following mass.

Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital in memory of Edwin.

Memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HarryjWillLivonia.com for the LaDuke family.