Edward J. LaForge

Uncle Ed, I remember your warm smile, your irreverent sense of humor, your 'who cares what others think' attitude, and your passion for people. I will miss you greatly, and you have made my world a better place in ways I cannot fathom. I hope you give my Grandma Mennie, Papa Gus, Maria, and all our relatives my love and tell them I miss them; and break some plates while dancing! <3 Mary Ann Skartsiaris

Ed will forever be sorely missed.....what a friend of the people.

May the spirit and memory of Ed live on in our hearts, offering warmth, understanding, and direction.

From the time we served on CDGB when you were a City Commissioner and gave me a baby shower, to the time you taught that baby to fish, through all of the campaigns in between, you are my hero!

Thank you Ed for all that you have done to inspire and support.
Geoffrey & Barbara Rose

Dear Ann and Family,
Ed was the original Renaissance man. He walked the talk of social justice. Your loss is Michigan's loss. May his legacy continue to inspire. He inspired me.

I'm very saddened to learn of Ed's passing. I will always treasure our friendship. As a new member of the Kalamazoo City Commission, Ed and I talked regularly. He always made time to
listen to my ideas and provide feedback. He was a tremendous source of advice, direction and support to me. He could be serious and amusing; sometimes both at the same time. I will truly miss him. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.

Ann and family:
Here's an Alleluia for the all the little ones Ed has graced with early childhood education ,the women's rights he has championed and lifted up, those he has acknowledged and honored with love and marriage as they wish .....the endearing list of equity and equality he has clearly triumphed ..and never did the spark of fire and light in his eyes go out.
Indeed he left that wonderful blue shimmer of hope and humor behind for each of us to "teach our children well" and...