Jean A. LaBonty, 71, of Merrill, passed away peacefully at Camp Holiday in Boulder Junction, Friday, June 15, 2012.
He was born March 18, 1941 to the late Jack and Reba (Tilton) LaBonty in Tomahawk. On July 22, 1966, he and Kathleen Kraft were united in marriage in Stillwater, MN, a union that lasted for 45 years.
Jean attended and graduated Merrill High School and following graduation, he served with the National Guard for 6 years.
Jean worked as a mechanic at a number of dealerships in the Merrill and Wausau areas, he then worked as a truck mechanic for Kolbe & Kolbe for 23 years, prior to his retirement.
Jean enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping, having a permanent site at Camp Holiday for the past 25 years. He also liked fast cars, and attending races at the local race tracks. Jean was a member of St. Stephens Church.
Surviving are wife, Kathy; daughters, Lori (Phil) Powell, Amy Rajek, all of Merrill, and Tracey (Ryan) Trezek, Janesville; grandchildren, Nicole Rehwinkel, Bryce, Brayden, and Britney Rajek; cousin John Tilton, Minocqua; sister-in-law Luette Sundberg, Oklahoma; nieces and nephew. Jean was preceded in death by his parents, brother John C. LaBonty, and son-in-law Stephen Rajek.
Services will be held 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 20, at Waid Funeral Home. Pastor Missy Holdorf will officiate. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. Wednesday until the time of the service. Burial will be 9 a.m. Thursday at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.