John Earl Laman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved John Earl Laman on April 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving children. Born on June 15, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, John lived a full and vibrant life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and service. John was the cherished son of the late John Emery and Beatrice Laman and the devoted husband of Venetia Enzian, his high school sweetheart. They were wed on August 22, 1953, at the Richland Presbyterian Church and celebrated a beautiful life together until Venetia’s passing. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Laurie, who predeceased him, Kerry, and John Enzian. A proud alumnus of Richland High School's Class of 1950, John pursued higher education at the University of Michigan, where he earned his DDS from the Dental School in 1956. Following his graduation, he served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1958, achieving the rank of captain. John's passion for dentistry led him to open a practice in downtown Hartford, Michigan, in 1958. He later moved his practice to an addition to his Hartford home, where he dedicated himself to his patients and the community until his retirement in 1997. Known for his generosity, John often donated dental services to clergy and those in need, embodying his deep commitment to service. For over fifty years, John was an active and devoted member of the Hartford United Methodist Church, serving on the board and enriching the spiritual life of his community. His dedication to service extended beyond his church, as he was also elected to the Hartford City Council, where he served as mayor, and contributed to building homes for Habitat for Humanity. A proud member of the Gideons, John's faith guided his actions and his contributions to the world. John's talents were as diverse as his interests. A self-taught handyman, carpenter, plumber, and electrician, he was ever ready to lend a helping hand to family and friends, aiding in home repairs and projects. A lover of the great outdoors, John found joy in camping, fishing, waterskiing, and entertaining loved ones at the family’s cherished lake home. A man of humor and warmth, John possessed a dry, mischievous wit that endeared him to all who knew him. He loved to tease his grandchildren, creating cherished memories filled with laughter and joy. His generous spirit and kind heart made him a beloved figure in the lives of his family and friends. John is survived by his son John Enzian (Cathie), daughter Kerry (Rick) Samulak, seven grandchildren, and twenty great-grandchildren, all of whom will continue to carry forward his legacy of love, kindness, and humor. A service celebrating the life of John Earl Laman will be held on April 30, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the Hartford United Methodist Church, located at 425 E Main Street, Hartford, MI. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church, in honor of John's enduring legacy of faith and community service. May John rest in peace, reunited with those who have gone before him, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.