Joseph "Joe" Chapin LaForce III, passed away on May 30, 2026, at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with his wife by his side. Born on April 24, 1957, in Battle Creek, Joe graduated from Lakeview High School in 1975. Over the years, he worked at several places, including Eaton in the early 1980s. He later worked in construction, putting his skills to use at Ferguson-Fruin Construction and other construction/concrete family-owned businesses. He was a member of the Operating Engineer's Union Local 324.

In his younger years, his hobbies included giving directions to truck drivers over the CB radio and racing slot cars and RC cars. Throughout his life, he liked to bowl in leagues, camp, and spend long weekends at the family cabin in Irons, Michigan, creating memories around a good campfire. Joe was the ultimate handy-man, often helping family and friends.

Joe was graced by the love and companionship of his wife, Gloria, whom he married on June 12, 1994. He is also survived by their daughter, Geneva Rose LaForce; step-son, Christopher Bradley, and his daughter, Terecia Harris; and his brother, Gregory LaForce, and sister, Geri Rae DeBilzan, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Chapin LaForce, Jr., and Joyce Ellen (Gallagher) LaForce, as well as two brothers, Michael T. Gallagher and James K. LaForce.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Joe’s honor on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at their home in Battle Creek, where they were married 32 years ago. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Joe are invited to gather and remember a good man. Memorial donations in his honor may be made to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.