John LaBranche

John grew up in Escanaba and graduated from Escanaba High School. Before returning to Escanaba, he served his country in the U.S. Army, and attended St. Norbert College. John then decided to join his father in the family business at Allo Funeral Home and became a funeral director. He was very active in area civic and service organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, Chamber of Commerce, the Optimist Club, the Serra Club, a past Esquire of the Escanaba Elks Lodge, past treasurer of the Jaycees, Ford River Lions Club, Escanaba Country Club, past president of the Delta County Funeral Directors Association and a member of the Upper Peninsula Funeral Directors Association. After retiring, John became quite the “handy man” and was very gifted in carpentry work, including tile work, windows and stained glass. He was always willing to help family and friends.

John is survived by his wife, the former Phyllis Seratti; four sons, a sister, Rosemary Simmonius; four grandchildren, as well as great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Jean Lang and a daughter, Kim Cossette.

Friends may call from 3 to 5 p.m. on Monday May 22, at St. Anne’s Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on Monday at church with Fr. Francis DeGroot officiating. A luncheon will follow Mass in the church parish hall. He will be laid to rest in Holy Cross Cemetery.

The Allo Coolman Funeral Homes are assisting the LaBranche family. Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.