Michael Harold LaFollette

Michael Harold LaFollette, 74, of Rising Sun, IN, passed away April 29, 2024 at St. Elizabeth Edgewood Hospital. Mike was born on September 21, 1949, a son of the late LaVern LaFollette and Myrtle (Baker) LaFollette. Mike was a graduate of the Lawrenceburg High School Class of 1968. On June 24, 1972, Mike was married to Deborah (Gridley). The couple enjoyed over 51 years together until his passing. Mike proudly served his country in the United States Army and was a recipient of the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and three Purple Hearts from Vietnam. Following his military service in the Army, Mike was employed as a welder and truck driver, and worked at I&M. He went on to continue his military service in the National Guard, retiring after a combined 30 years of active and reserve duty. Service was central to Mike’s life. He added much to his community, being involved in various volunteer and veteran organizations such as the Rising Sun American Legion Post #59 Color Guard, Southeastern Indiana Honor Guard, KWVA Color Guard, Southeastern Indiana Vietnam Veterans of America Lary D. Fogle Chapter 71, National Purple Heart Society, and Disabled American Veterans. Mike was chosen to present a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, was honored as a Hometown Hero by the Cincinnati Reds, and was selected as Indiana National Guard Soldier of the Year. Mike was instrumental in the Vietnam Veterans acquiring the Huey helicopter display at Lesko Park in Aurora, IN and played a key role in creating the program for Veterans Treatment Court, spending many years as a mentor for the program, impacting countless lives. He additionally assisted with transport and security for Ohio and Dearborn County Justice Systems and volunteered teaching marching techniques with the Rising Sun Marching Band, also serving for a time as the Band Booster President.  Mike enjoyed watching the Cincinnati Reds and sprint car racing.  

Mike is survived by his wife, Debbie, of Rising Sun, IN; sons Matthew LaFollette (Misty) of Rising Sun, IN and Jared LaFollette (Misty) of Evansville, IN; brother Ken LaFollette (Caroline) of Houston, TX; sister Diana Zimmerman (Donald) of Greenfield, OH; sisters-in-law Linda Thayer of Rising Sun, IN and Cindy Kittle of Columbus, IN; grandchildren Dylan, Camden, Colin, David, Tyler, and Carter; great grandchildren Conner and Era; nephews Marcus and Cody, as well as several nieces. Mike was preceded in death by his parents LaVern and Myrtle LaFollette and brother-in-law and best friend David Kittle.

Services will be held Monday, May 6th at the Markland Funeral Home, visitation from 11 AM – 1 PM, funeral 1 PM, with burial to follow at Rising Sun New Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Welcome Home Warriors, donations to be used for the benefit of the Southeastern Indiana Veterans Museum.

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