Ishpeming, MI - Kate L. LaFave, age 44, of 818 N. Main St. Ishpeming, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at her home in Ishpeming after a courageous fight with cancer.

Kate was born in Laurium, MI on June 16, 1978, a daughter of  Naomi J. (Lahti) and the late Thomas N. Kariniemi. Kate was a graduate of the Ishpeming High School, Class of 1996, and furthered her education at NMU for 4 years. Kate's work career began at the Casselman and Kangas Law Office in Marquette, then at Michigan Rehab Services and her longest employment was with the Michigan State Police, where she served the 8th district headquarters as executive assistant to the captain prior to her retirement. Kate had a knack and passion for home decor and decorating, which led her to begin her own business, Re:Home. Her numerous skills and talents also meant that Kate was involved in a variety of community events. Kate was a member of the Apostolic Lutheran Church in Ishpeming.

Survivors include her husband of 24 years, John T. LaFave of Ishpeming, son, Tom (Molly) LaFave of Negaunee, daughter, Emma LaFave of Ishpeming, granddaughter, Aria LaFave, her parents, Naomi and Roger Kangas of Ishpeming, seven sisters, Cindy (Kevin) Mack of Berkley, MI, Anna (Jason) Witt of Ishpeming, Emily (Sam) Genord of Negaunee, Amy Kangas of Ishpeming, Natalie Kangas of Ishpeming, Betsy Kangas of Pocatello, ID, Ellie (Craig) Lassila of Ishpeming, three brothers, Jake Kariniemi of Ishpeming, John Kangas of Detroit and Willie (Erin) Kangas of Champion, her best friend Tricia Seelen, along with numerous nieces nephews, cousins, her in-laws, Janice and Steven Lahti, and her paternal grandmother Betty Kariniemi. She was preceded in death by her father Thomas Kariniemi and her other grandparents.

Kate's family will greet relatives and friends at the Apostolic Lutheran Church, 1700 US Hwy 41, Ishpeming from 5 until 8pm on Friday, March 31, 2023, and again on Saturday April 1, 2023, from 10:00am – 12:00pm. Where funeral services will be held at 12:00pm on Saturday, April 1, 2023, with Al Anderson and David Taivalkoski officiating. Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be John Laurin, Scott Corkin, Carl Underwood, Willie Kangas and Jake Kariniemi.

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