Orville LaCourse

Orville Charles LaCourse was born as America was emerging from the First World War and beginning to enjoy some industrial prosperity. A nation and its people were hopeful, yet the economic depression and another war in the coming decades meant hardship for many citizens. Through it all, they learned what it meant to sacrifice for the good of their families and their country.

One such family was that of Enos Sr. and Mabel LaCourse, who raised nine children through the decades of the Depression and World War II. Orville was born on November 24, 1919 and grew up sharing the load in a large family. He attended school through the 6th grade, but like many youth of his generation, he left school to go to work to help support his family.

Beside his commitment to his family, Orville served his country faithfully during World War II. Americans rallied around the war effort in Europe, Asia and Africa, and when the troops returned home, they received the appreciation of a grateful nation.

Having learned the value of hard work at a young age, Orville was well prepared for the labor force that profited from his diligence. He devoted many years to factory work and retired from the shipping and receiving department.

In his aging years, Orville built a house on the same property as his son Robert so that he could be close to his loved ones. Orville’s long life was made rich by the enduring joys of family.

After a brief hospitalization, Orville died at Battle Creek Health Systems on January 12, 2009 at the age of 89.