David H. LaFontaine, 75, of rural Monroe, IN passed away unexpectedly on Friday November 17, 2023 at his home. Dave was born on January 4, 1948 in Decatur, IN to Richard M. and Loretta R. (Kaehr) LaFontaine, who preceded him in death. He married Peggy A. McBride on August 20, 1971.
Dave was a parishioner of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Decatur, IN. He was a 1966 graduate of Decatur Catholic High School. Dave worked for General Electric, Central Soya, Hoosier Wire Die, Decatur Wire Die, National Oil & Gas, and was a lifelong grain and poultry farmer. He was enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves for 6 years, as a Sargent & Military Police officer.
Dave was loved by his family and friends. He was a loving son, wonderful brother, amazing husband, and tremendous father. He was adored by his grandchildren. He enjoyed playing and receiving practical jokes, and April Fool’s Day was his favorite. Dave was well-known to be kind and generous and never knew a stranger. He loved helping people in need.
Dave was a farm boy at heart. From his childhood sandbox playing with toy tractors with cousins to the farming lessons and meaningful time he spent with his son over 40 years farming together, farming always brought him joy.
Dave built and operated a large egg farm. His favorite part of that endeavor was the lifelong friendships he formed with his employees. He was a mentor of students for the Adams Central vocational training program for many years.
Dave enjoyed watching the Andy Griffith Show and Father Knows Best. He listened to the music of Lawrence Welk and Tennessee Ernie Ford. He always looked forward to attending live singing or dance performances at theaters.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Peggy A. LaFontaine of Monroe; his sister, Carol A. (Charlie) Bowers of Monroe; 3 children Matthew R. (Gina) LaFontaine of Fort Wayne, Stephanie C. (John) Hammond of Monroe, and Sara T. (Ryan) Hart of Fort Wayne; 14 grandchildren: Sophia, Milana, Diego, Lorenzo, Maria, and Lucia LaFontaine; Andrew, Jalen, Sage, Reece, and Shae Hammond; Carson, Spencer, and Marla Hart.
Visitation will be from 12:00 – 3:30 p.m. Sunday, November 26, 2023 at Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home, with reciting of the Holy Rosary at 3:30 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 27, 2023 at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Decatur, IN with Father David Ruppert presiding. Visitation will be prior from 9:00 -10:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. A funeral luncheon will be served immediately afterwards in St. Mary’s Parish Hall.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests Memorials be made to St. Joseph Catholic School, Decatur, IN.
