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As received from the O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home:
Paul Anthony LaBine, age 81, a resident of Chicago, IL passed away Saturday, December 12, 2022, at Community First Medical Center of Chicago, IL following a short illness.
Paul was born October 17, 1941, in Grand Rapids, MI soon moving with his family to Hancock, MI where he graduated from high school.
Soon after graduation, Paul enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving valiantly on the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the U.S.S. Enterprise (CVN-65), and the U.S.S. Lake Champlain (CV-39). When he was in the mood he would talk about his stories in Vietnam and Korea, the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis naval blockade, Project Mercury when Commander Alan Shepard was recovered, and the tracking and measuring of John Glenn’s first American orbital spaceflight. After being honorably discharged, he moved to Chicago and he took on many hobbies, including but not limited to working on cars as a gifted mechanic and even loved racing stock cars.
A long-time bachelor, Paul eventually found his greatest source of joy in life, his wife, Franciszka “Anna” LaBine. Anna and Paul were married for over 20 years and lived a happy, peaceful life in Chicago spending time with friends and family making sweet memories. Paul and Anna adored each other and made each feel uniquely special and loved. Paul often would take a flower from the garden or a vase and would affectionately place it behind Anna’s hair. Paul was very proud of his wife and spoke of her in a glowing way whether they were together or apart. Paul was a beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, neighbor, and treasured friend to many people and impacted many people’s lives. We will always remember Paul for his big smile, smart wit, and edgy attitude.
Paul is preceded in death by his parents Paul Welden LaBine and Charlotte LaBine (Ifland), his sister, Charlotte “Sherry” Anne Hellman, and his brother, Alfred “Fred” LaBine. Paul is survived by his wife, Anna, numerous nieces and nephews and by many loving friends and extended family.
Private services will be held on the family lot at Lake View Cemetery in Calumet with military honors conducted by the Copper Country Veterans Association. The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements. To leave online condolences, please go to www.oneilldennisfh.con.
