David Joseph LaFontaine, of Fenton, passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025, after a three-year brave battle with cancer. David leaves behind a legacy of grit, laughter, and love.

David was born April 11, 1961, the son of Constance and the late Richard LaFontaine, of Farmington, Michigan.

If you met Dave, you didn't forget him. With his distinctive mustache and his unique take on all things — he made life more colorful.

As part owner/operator of the family landscape construction business, David worked with many golf courses, municipalities, companies, and residences across Michigan. David was well respected by those in the industry and by clients for his integrity, knowledge, and skill. He took immense pride in his role in the ongoing success and reputation of the company whose roots go back to 1956. He loved all aspects but especially working with heavy equipment and was a Master of his craft. He was known to stop randomly along his travels to look at equipment for sale.

David was a man of family. He and Mary Ann built a love story full of loyalty, laughter, and adventure. He was an amazing husband and father, providing for and taking good care of his family. His greatest joy in life was his two sons, Jackson and Nathan. He was an active participant and teacher in their lives and guided them in life's skills, a role model for being a good person and a strong man. He was so very proud of both of them and loved them immensely.

The eldest of many cousins, Dave enjoyed his relationships with them and his aunts and uncles in both the US and Canada. He worked closely with his brothers and mother in the family business. He valued his relationships with Mary Ann's family. His many nieces and nephews were treasured by him, as were the children of friends. To some he was known as the Baby Whisperer. He loved working and playing alongside his lifelong friends, with much laughter along the way. Two of his favorite places were Horn's Bar and Page's Garage.

Dave loved the outdoors - skiing, camping, snowmobiling, the Upper Peninsula, motorcycles and cars. He worked hard and played hard. He was intelligent, strong, fearless, and forever cool. He was a fighter to the end. He will be greatly missed by all.

David is survived by his adoring wife, Mary Ann; beloved sons, Nathan and Jackson; loving mother, Connie; siblings, Robert (Janet), Joseph (Maureen), Theresa, and Colette.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, April 13, from 2 - 8pm, with a scripture service at 7 pm, at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home.

A funeral Mass will take place on Monday, April 14, at 10:00 am (in state at 9:30 am) at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the U Can-Cer Vive Foundation to further honor David's life.

Please keep David and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.