Date of Service:
October 14, 2026
Date of Interment:
October 14, 2026
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Michael Joseph LaPorte, Sr., 81, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, at VNA Hospice House, surrounded by the love and care of those who meant so much to him.
Michael was born on March 7, 1945, in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, to the late Omer and Edna LaPorte.
In September 1965, Michael proudly enlisted in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War with the 26th Ordnance Company. For his service to his country, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal.
After his military service, Michael began a long and dedicated career with BellSouth/AT&T. He retired in 2001 after 32 years as a telecommunications technician. He was also a proud member of St. Helen Catholic Church in Vero Beach, the BellSouth Pioneers, and the Communication Workers of America.
Michael found great joy in the simple things in life. He loved painting, gardening, and, most of all, spending time with his family. He had a generous heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. His kindness, warmth, and willingness to help others will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Michael leaves behind his beloved wife of 57 years, Margaret Wodtke LaPorte; daughters, Tina (Pete) Natoli and Lisa LaPorte (fiancé, Jason Griffin); son, Michael LaPorte, Jr.; and grandsons, Peter Michael Natoli and Cody Ford. Also surviving are Michael’s sisters, Anette Shields, Virginia Gallo, Lorraine Flowers, and Lucille Weems; and his brother, Gerald LaPorte. He will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends for the love, laughter, and countless memories they shared with him.
A Mass will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at St. Helen Catholic Church, 2000 20th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960. Inurnment with Army honors will follow at Crestlawn Cemetery, 1216 14th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Michael’s memory to the VNA & Hospice Foundation, 920 37th Place, #101, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Michael’s love, kindness, and gentle spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2026 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Stacy Brock - niece
October 7, 2026, 12:31 pm
I have many fond memories of spending the night at Uncle Mike’s house with my cousin, Lisa. I am so sad for my Aunt Margaret and my cousins to have lost their husband and father. Uncle Mike will be missed.
Susan Wodtke Smith - Sister in law
October 10, 2026, 11:12 pm
My family was so very fortunate to have Mike join our family when he married my sister 57 years ago. We have so many good and fun memories to keep close to our hearts. Our card games, camping days, garage sales, family get togethers, are some of the greatest. Everywhere I look in my house I see Mike with something that he might’ve fixed, replaced or repaired for me. I was so honored to get one of his paintings this year for my birthday. He was so multi talented and was such a good husband, father, papa, brother and uncle. Rest in peace Mike, your work here is done. You will be missed by us all.