John Lawrence Lacaria Jr.

John Lawrence Lacaria, Jr., a storyteller and companion to all who knew him, passed away at the age of 71 on April 17, 2024, at Troy Beaumont Hospital. A resident of Rochester Hills since 2006 and a former citizen of Mackinac Island, John left a lasting impression on both communities.
Born on February 7, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan, to John L. Lacaria, Sr., and Leona Mae (Black), John's early life in Grosse Pointe was filled with the promise and adventure that would characterize his entire life. After graduating from Grosse Pointe South High School in 1972, John ventured to where his heart truly belonged-Mackinac Island. There, he became the proud owner and operator of the Great Turtle Lodge, cultivating a haven that reflected his love for up-north island life.
John was a natural people person; his charismatic presence and infectious enthusiasm made the Great Turtle Lodge more than just a place to stay-it was a place to be truly alive. His passions were not confined to his work, as he was an avid sports enthusiast, serving on the National Ski Patrol and spiking volleyballs – preferably near a body of water, where he loved to spend his time. His quirky and infectious sense of humor, and jolly laugh will be remembered by all.
In 1993, John married Judi at Trinity Lutheran Church in Clawson, with whom he shared 31 years of unwavering love and companionship. He became the stepfather to David (Heather) Merrill and Kristin (Ken) Ashburn and cherished every moment with his six grandchildren: Connor, Cole, Alexis, Dylan, Evan, and Nora.
John's sisters, Linda (Bryan) Visser, Sandra (Jim) O'Rouke, and Cynthia Diamond, along with his nieces and nephews Michael, Tina, and Ashley (Dan), will miss his spirited stories and heartfelt laughter.
Friends and family are invited to a memorial gathering on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 4 PM to 8 PM at Gramer Funeral Home, 705 North Main St., Clawson, MI 48017. John's life will be celebrated at Spirit of Christ Lutheran Church in Clawson, Michigan, on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 11 AM with visitation starting at 10 AM, where his memory will continue to inspire.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Spirit of Christ Church for the Beacon of Hope food pantry or Animal Welfare Society of Southeastern Michigan a cause close to John's heart.
John's legacy is not just in the life he led but, in the joy, and love he brought to others. He will be remembered as a loving husband, an adoring grandfather and a faithful friend. His laughter will echo in the halls of the Great Turtle Lodge and in the hearts of all who knew him.