Michael “Mike” John LaPuzza Jr., a devoted family man, esteemed public servant, and passionate entrepreneur, passed away on Sunday, March 24th, 2024, in the loving care of the Palliative Care Unit at the VA Hospital in Oklahoma City.

Born on July 20th, 1936, in Oak Park, Illinois, Mike was the son of Michael John LaPuzza Sr. and Josephine (Long). He spent his formative years in Melrose Park, Illinois, where he graduated from Proviso High in 1954.

At the age of 17, Mike answered his country's call by joining the United States Navy, serving with distinction during the Korean War. Following his military service, he embarked on a career that exemplified his commitment to service and excellence.

After leaving the Navy, Mike remained in California where he was employed by the Pacific Gas and Electric, where he worked as a high structural workman.

In 1964, he relocated to McAlester OK and was employed by the U.S. Naval Ammunition Depot. In 1966, Mike joined the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and graduated from the 20th Oklahoma Highway Patrol Recruit School.

After becoming a State Trooper, Mike pursued a higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree at Oklahoma City University in 1975 and a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration in 1977. Mike went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma in 1983.

Mike graduated from the 121st Session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico VA for Law Specialist in 1979 and 1980.

Mike served with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol for 26 years as a Trooper attaining the ranks of 2nd Lieutenant Supervisor in Internal Affairs: 1st Lieutenant Commander at Troop A in Oklahoma City: Captain assigned first to the Chief’s Office and then to the OKC, Enid, and Pawnee Field Districts. He became the Director of the Highway Patrol Academy, and his last assignment was a Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety.

In 1991, Mike retired from the Department of Public Safety went to work as an investigator at the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office under Robert “Bob” Macy. Mike retired from the District Attorney’s Office in 2001.

Mike had been an active in Amateur/Ham Radios and started his own business, Clear Signal Products, and became known as the Coaxman selling antenna and cable parts at Trade Shows. In this business, Mike made many good and lasting friendships.

In 1975, as a State Trooper, Mike met Cheryl Warren who worked at the Oklahoma City Police Department in the Robbery/Homicide Unit. On March 3rd, 1977, Mike and Cheryl married where she became a member of the family along with his two daughters, Teresa and Sandra. Mike and Cheryl went on to have two more children, a daughter Toni Michelle and son Jonathan.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his two sisters, Carmelita LaPuzza of Wheaton, IL and Virginia Rasche (Russell) of Naperville, IL. Wife Cheryl LaPuzza, children Teresa Browne, Sandra Manek, Toni M. Parvin, Jonathan LaPuzza (Anne), grandchildren Krysty McClendon (Garret), Justin Browne, Shannon Robinson, Brittney Manek, Amara Razaq, Olivia Pravin, Harrison Parvin, and Michael T. LaPuzza, great grandchildren; Austin McClendon, Kiley McClendon, Kynlee McClendon, Samuel Robinson, Lily Robinson, and Levi Robinson.

Michael will be remembered for his integrity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family, country, and community. His legacy of service and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In honoring Michael's memory, let us celebrate a life lived with purpose, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.