Ishpeming- Donald J. LaChapell, age 70, longtime area resident, passed away peacefully on Thursday May 19, 2022 at the Eastwood Nursing Center in Negaunee.

Don was born in Stambaugh, MI on July 23, 1951, son of the late Fred LaChapell and Genevieve Karwoski. He graduated from Ishpeming High School with the class of 1969. Following graduation Don studied at Northern Michigan University where he received a bachelor's degree in education with a social studies focus and a master's degree in guidance and counseling. Don worked as a school teacher for many years before purchasing Touch of Finland in Marquette. It was at Touch of Finland that his business mind and his love and drive for hard work was able to flourish, Don never let obstacles keep him from achieving his goals. Don enjoyed classic rock, sports, and spending time with his family.

Don is survived by his wife- JoEllen (Rowe) LaChapell, 7 children- Bryan LaChapell, Jennifer LaChapell, Nicole (Nicholas) Hittle, Andrew (Hillary) LaChapell, Jesse (Merry) LaChapell, Tyler LaChapell, Jordan LaChapell, sister- Barbara Harvey, and 5 grandchildren- Peyton and Parker Hittle, Lucy LaChapell, and Bodhi and Oliver LaChapell. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers- Martin and Frank Kopenski, and daughter-in-law- Karin LaChapell.

Don's family will greet relatives and friends on Monday May 23, 2022 at the Eastwood Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee from 12:00 Noon until 1:00pm. A funeral service will follow at 1:00pm with Rev. Dale Niskanen officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church hall. Burial will take place on Tuesday May 24, 2022 at the Park Cemetery in Marquette.

Don's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.