Van Buren--- Leola Laplante, 95, peacefully entered into eternal life on February 15, 2023, with her family at her side. She was born November 12, 1927 in Van Buren, a daughter of the late Pitre and Laura (Sirois) Michaud, and was blessed to have over 74 loving years of marriage to her husband Chanel Laplante.

She was a devoted member of St. Bruno-St. Remi Church her entire life and was a member of Van Buren's former Lioness Club. Leola last worked many years with Van Buren School System. She treasured spending time at the family camp on Long Lake and wintering in Florida. Her passion was to her family, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and delighted in all of their milestones.

She is survived by her husband Chanel Laplante of Van Buren; four children, Bill Laplante and his wife Donna of Van Buren, Donna Albert and her husband Greg of New York, Brian Laplante and his partner Trent Davis of Massachusetts, and Scott Laplante of Van Buren; one sister, Gloria Levesque and her husband Elbridge of Madawaska; daughter-in-law, Lucille Laplante of Van Buren; 10 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Leola was predeceased by one son, Rick Laplante in 2022, and seven siblings, Lorette Ouellette, Clifford Michaud, Claude Michaud, Irma Frank, Priscille Daigle, Therese Lajoie, and Louise Madore.

Funeral services will be announced at a future date. Arrangements are a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 118 High St., Van Buren.

*Funeral Service Update*

Mr. Chanel Laplante, the beloved husband of the late Leola (Michaud) Laplante passed away November 9, 2023.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated for both Chanel and his wife Leola at 10 AM on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at St. Bruno-St. Remi Catholic Church, Van Buren. Spring interment will be in Grand River Cemetery, Van Buren. In lieu of flowers or donations, it was Chanel's and Leola's wish to extend an act of kindness to others in need in their memory.  Arrangements are a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 118 High St., Van Buren.