John J. LaBute

John went home to Jesus on December 21st. He lost a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Spokane, WA. Graduated from Rogers H.S. in 1959, where he met the love of his life, Marlene Schumacher. John and Marlene just finished celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. John worked most of his life as a truck driver and retired after 27 years with Safeway. They lived most of their lives in Deer Park, WA., where they raised five great kids: John J. Jr. "Jay" (Theresa) LaBute of Elk; Kaye Lynn (Steve) Sheridan of Spokane; Greg R. (Teresa) LaBute of Spokane; Bill T. (Nancy) LaBute of Chattaroy and Kriss A. (Allen) Arnold of the Spokane Valley. Preceded in death by his parents Joe and Edna LaBute of Spokane and brother Bill Brumley of Mead. John has two surviving siblings Joanne (Bob) Bauder of Boise, ID., and Patrica (Tony) Santos of Spokane. John and Marlene have ten grand children and three great grandchildren. John enjoyed fishing, but the real joys in his life were spending time with family, friends and his beloved dogs. John also enjoyed classic cars, working on them, and cruising around town in his hotrod. He had a big smile and a great sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. He was loved beyond measure and will be missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace "Our Precious Husband and Daddy". Viewing will be on Wednesday, December 29th. 9:00 to 5:00, and services will be held on Thursday, December 30th. 10:00 am at RIPLINGER FUNERAL HOME, N. 4305 Division , followed by graveside services at Holy Cross Cemetery. A Celebration of John's life will be held at Sons of Norway, 6710 North Country Homes Blvd. after services at Holy Cross Cemetery. n