Obituary for Alan John Lazette

Alan John Lazette “Al”, 63, of Portland, MI took his final curtain call on July 24, 2018; we suspect because two weeks in Ann Arbor surrounded by so much maize and blue was too much for his Spartan heart to handle. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Charlene, his children Christie Lazette (Chris), Allison Lazette-Magnan (Anthony), his beloved granddaughter, Genevieve and his niece, Robyn Heron (Matthew) and great nieces, Laylah & Peyton; his nephew, Brian Howell and his brother-in-law, Bob Howell.

Al died knowing that Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein were among the best movies ever made, that craft breweries would never get his business until they stocked Bud Light, and the understanding that no good music was made post 1978.

He had a firm belief that chocolate should never be mixed with fruit. His regrets are few, but include an unfortunate situation where he indulged in what he thought to be a delicious chocolate brownie only to find it was corrupted by raspberries.

After a career of customer service, he decided to spend the latter part of his working days with people more on his level that he could better relate to, so he began substitute teaching at the local elementary school. This afforded kids and parents exposure to his unique brand of storytelling, including his favorite tale of how his faithful dog, Leo, loved to chase parked cars.

Al’s sudden departure will leave his friends and family wondering why he was taken so soon and who they will be able to call for bail money. Most of the time he was extremely animated and his jokes could be wildly inappropriate, but he was a person who could make friends anywhere and from all walks of life. Al was a published author and spent countless hours on the stage with the Portland Civic Players. It is always these kinds of people that leave us too soon and it seems hardest to say goodbye. Al would have wanted us to remember him at his very best, which he would have argued was all the time.

Al Lazette was a proud Spartan alum, loyal friend, loving husband, proud father, adoring "Grampy", and favorite Uncle. His personality was infectious and he will be terribly missed.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Mike Alber at 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 27, 2018 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Portland. Rite of Committal will follow at Portland Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. and again on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge St., Portland. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society in honor of Al. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.