Florence Lois (Pietila) DeForest

Florence Lois DeForest of Mecosta, formerly of Laingsburg passed away peacefully at her home Thursday, October 15, 2020; joining her Lord and Savior in Heaven. A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, October 21, 2020 at Oak Plains Cemetery in Shaftsburg, Michigan. Pastor John Schlaack of Graham Church will officiate. The use of masks will be requested. Florence Lois DeForest was born January 20, 1927 in Ravenna, Michigan to Emil and Mary (Paavola) Pietila. She was a graduate of Ravenna High School in 1945 and went on to graduate from nursing school at Mercy Central School of Nursing in Grand Rapids. She spent her life in service to others and was a true leader in both her professional and personal life. She married LaVern Alton DeForest on February 22, 1949 in Ravenna, Michigan, celebrating 64 years of marriage until his passing in 2013. She was a faithful member of Graham Church for many years. She is survived by her children; Nancy (Larry) LaBelle of Mecosta, Edward (Christine) DeForest of Lupton, Thomas (Beatrice) DeForest of Copemish, and her grandson; Aaron DeForest. She was preceded in death by her parents; Emil and Mary Pietila, her loving husband; LaVern, her grandson; Kevin LaBelle, her granddaughter; Amanda DeForest and her 3 brothers and 1 sister. Memorials are suggested to Graham Church, 7320 Beard Road, Perry, MI 48872 or by visiting grahamchurch.org. Online condolences may be shared at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.