Negaunee Twp- Maxine E. LaParche, age 77 Negaunee Twp resident and former Ely Township resident went to be with our Lord on Wednesday November 30, 2016 at the UP Health System Marquette with her family at her side.

Maxine was born May 30, 1939 in Snowville location to the late Arne and Florence (Maki) Syrjala.  She graduated from Ishpeming High School, class of 1956.  Maxine was employed by the NICE Community School, where she worked as a bus driver and custodian for 25 years, she retired in 1995.

Maxine was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church where she was active with the Women's Christian Service.  She belonged to the Bell Hospital Auxiliary, American Legion Auxiliary Post 114, and Mather Nursing Center Auxiliary and the Red Hat Society.  She also donated her time to the Ely Twp Senior Meals; she played in local horseshoe leagues and pool leagues.  Maxine was a member of the Michigan Association of retired School Personnel.

Maxine is survived by 4 children: Marla Davey of Ishpeming, Marcy (Tom) Watters of Ishpeming, Monty (Cathy) LaParche of Palm Beach, FL, and Melony (Curtis) Skytta of Champion, a brother Donald Syrjala of Republic, her significant other Jack Matchett, 16 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.  Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Marvin and a sister Nancy Ouellette.

Maxine's family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00am – 12:00 noon on Monday December 5, 2016 at the Bethel Lutheran Church in Ishpeming where funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon with Rev. Lauri O. Maki officiating.  Burial will take place at Northland Chapel Gardens.

A luncheon will follow the service in the church fellowship hall.

The funeral service recording, when it becomes available, can be found here .