Hugh R. delaForêt

Hugh R. delaForêt, 70, of Coloma, passed away on Thursday, March 9, 2017, at his home. Hugh was born on November 13, 1946, in Marion, IN to Norman & Lenore (Sturtz) delaForêt. He proudly served our country in the United States Army during Vietnam. Hugh attended Lake Michigan College and earned a degree in Food Service Management. On July 27, 1974, Hugh married the love of his life, Henrietta “Heni” Stiem, at the 1st Assembly of God Church in Benton Harbor. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cooking and ice carving. Hugh also liked to collect driftwood and then carve them into beautiful pieces of art. For over 15 years, he showed and sold his art at many art fairs. Hugh was a proud member of the NRA, Watervliet Rod & Gun Club and Fruit Belt Wood Carvers. He was an incredible man with a sense of humor guaranteed to make anyone smile, Hugh will be deeply missed by all. A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Burial will take place at North Shore Memory Garden in Coloma. Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, March 12, 2017 from 3 PM until 5 PM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lighthouse Forever Fund or Caring Circle. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Hugh is survived by his loving wife of almost 43 years, Heni; daughter, Natalie (Joe) Macerata; grandchildren, Ava & Marcella Macerata; brothers, Louis (Jan), Paul (Suzanne), and Gene (Diana) delaForêt; and sister, Anne Jones. Hugh was preceded in death by his parents.