Byron Kenneth LaPage

Byron Kenneth LaPage passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at the age of 57. Byron was born in Sodus, New York on November 24, 1967.
Byron was one of a kind. He was kindhearted, genuine, and a true friend to all. He never met a stranger in his life. He had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found fishing, hunting, or searching for morel mushrooms.
Byron was born a free spirit. He loved spending his younger years traveling the country in his Volkswagen bus following the Grateful Dead on tours. Their music was the soundtrack to his life. You could often find him with a note taped to his front door that simply read " I can't hear you, my headphones are on" and jamming out to one of their many live performances. He loved hitchhiking and picking up hitchhikers so he could learn their incredible stories of living the free life.
He had a gift for making people feel welcomed, turning strangers into friends and finding laughter even in the hardest times. Even at the end of his life, he was still preaching peace and love to those around him.
Byron will be deeply missed by all who loved him. He had a special bond with his two "brothers from another mother" Mitch and Steve; his dear friend Melissa, who has always looked out for him and made sure he was cared for in every way possible; and Mitcheal, his favorite little buddy who lovingly referred to him as "Uncle Byron" will be left with fond memories of fishing, playing a game of catch, and all the times he made Byron laugh while playing silly video games for him.
His family and friends will remember him privately. Byron's wishes were to be cremated and buried back home next to his black lab Sam. He trusted his closest friends to make sure that happens. If we could all take a lesson from what Byron learned throughout his life it would be that tomorrow is not promised and you must live for today. After all is said and done, there is nothing left to do but smile, smile, smile! As Byron would always end every conversation...PEACE!
Please share your stories and memories of Byron in the "Share a Memory" section. Arrangements entrusted to Nelsons Cremation & Funeral Services, 135 N. Center Avenue, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Byron, please visit our floral store.