Ishpeming - Edward Joseph LaFond, age 78, of Ishpeming, passed away on Friday, December 18th, 2020 at his home after a battle with cancer.

Ed was born in Ishpeming on February 20, 1942, a son of the late Rose Marie (Trudell) and Ernest  LaFond.

He attended the St. Paul's High School in Negaunee, graduating with the class of 1960.

Ed had a passion for trains, having worked for the railroads for 42 years. The majority of his career was with the LS&I Railroad.

On August 20, 1988 he was united in marriage to Valerie (Niemi) Carlson at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Ed was a man of great faith, and he adored his family and friends. He was a devoted member and lay minister of St. Joseph's. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he spent as much time with them as possible. He was a man of routine, which included daily coffee with his friends. Ed loved to make people laugh; his sense of humor is something he will always be remembered for.

He is survived by his wife, Valerie; Children: Cindy (James) Helppi of Calumet; Carole Koski of Kewaunee, WI; Brian (Julie) Carlson of Mohawk; Bruce (Kyla) Carlson of Billings, MT; Christine (Michael) Nurmi of Ishpeming; Son-in-law John (Pamela) Mattson of Anoka, MN; Brother Bernard (special friend Emlee Young); Sister-in-law Linda LaFond of Negaunee; Nephew Jason LaFond; 20 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren, and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Connie Mattson, brother Leo LaFond, and infant great-grandson William Helppi.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Ishpeming at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 29 ^th with Rev. Fr. Ryan Ford as celebrant. Visitation will take place one hour prior, starting at 10:00 AM.

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