Joseph LaMarra

Joseph Stephen LaMarra of Bellaire, Michigan and Bonita Springs, Florida died peacefully at Munson Medical Center on July 27, 2011 following a long illness. He was surrounded by his wife, Sharon; and children, Kristin and Stephen.

He was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 20, 1939 to Rose and Angelo LaMarra. He earned degrees from the University of Detroit, Wayne State University and Eastern Michigan University. He enjoyed a long and rewarding career as a high school guidance counselor at Southfield Lathrup High School. During that time he was involved in many activities and livelihoods including Southfield Community Theater, St Bede's youth programs and the Blizzard Ski Club for children.

At Southfield Lathrup he was not only a gifted counselor but was active in his students lives as a class sponsor planning senior trips and proms for many years. He was the ski coach for the Southfield Lathrup Ski Team and is credited in organizing and chaperoning many enjoyable ski trips out West for students, faculty, friends and family.

Joe had a great love for the outdoors and spent many years on the tennis courts, the ski slopes and, of course, the beaches, as well as, cruise ships.

He turned his love of the outdoors and his talent for counseling into two special auxiliary careers working as a travel agent for Gateway Travels and a real estate agent for Shanty Creek Properties and Coldwell Banker.

Joe was an enthusiastic, convincing person who drew people to his favorites. He led the way for his family and friends to enjoy a lifestyle of vacationing and retiring at Shanty Creek Resorts where he introduced the infamous "Mostaccioli Sunday" parties.

Joe's memory will be cherished by his loving wife, Sharon; his children, Kristin (Bruce) Laible of Traverse City and Stephen (Lynnette) LaMarra of Brighton; and his grandchildren, Emma and Adam Laible and Lydia LaMarra.

He is survived by his sister, Dolores Kotlarz; and his brothers, Tony, Bill and Rick LaMarra and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, August 5, 2011 at Ten a.m. at St. Luke Catholic Church with Fr. James Gardiner officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to Saint Luke Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been handled by the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.