Republic – Robert "Bob" LaForge, age 73, of 4920 Cut Across Rd., Republic, passed away on Tuesday October 25, 2016 at his home following a lengthy battle with heart disease.

Bob was born September 3, 1943 in Ishpeming the son of the late Wilfred and Mae (LaParche) LaForge. Bob was a lifelong area resident other than a few years in his teens that he had spent in Detroit. Bob worked for Republic Township for nearly 42 years in the Department of Public Works. He was a member of the Republic Volunteer Fire Dept. Bob enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing along with supporting the Green Bay Packers.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years Arlene LaForge of Republic, 2 children – Sherry (Kevin) Warlin and Bobby Joe LaForge both of Republic, 4 grandchildren – Theresa (Matt) Greer, Laura (Chris) Stanolis, Justin (Carrie Teser) LaForge and Lee (Jenna) Warlin, a great grandson Caleb Stanolis along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son Curtis LaForge, 2 brothers – Lawrence and Paul LaForge and 2 half-brothers Nels and Ralph Hill.

The LaForge family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00am – 11:00am on Monday, October 31, 2016 at the Bethany Lutheran Church. A memorial service will follow at 11:00am on Monday at Bethany Lutheran Church with the Rev. Kevin Kaiser to officiate. Interment will take place at the Republic Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Republic Volunteer Fire Dept.

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

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