Wallace I. LaFortune, age 93, of Mitchell, SD died Sunday May 24, 2009 at Firesteel Healthcare Center. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Friday at the Will Funeral Chapel with burial at Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Thursday at the Will Funeral Chapel.

Wally, LaFortune, son of Alexander and Mary (Petersen) LaFortune, was born in Mitchell, SD on June 24, 1915. He grew up in Mitchell and graduated from Mitchell High School in 1935. After his schooling he began working at the American Optical Company.

Wally was united in marriage with Esther Schwartz on April 23, 1944 in Mitchell, SD. The couple made their home in Mitchell. Wally was employed at area dry cleaners and later began at Palace Cleaners. The couple then managed the Super City Cleaners in Mitchell. He later became employed at Clancy Cleaners and then returned to Palace Cleaners. Wally retired at the age of 63.
In his retirement he enjoyed woodworking, doing home repairs and watching TV. He truly loved music especially polka music.

Wally was a member of the Congregational Church UCC, the United Commercial Travelers, and was an assistant scout master.

Grateful for having shared his life are his wife, Esther LaFortune, Mitchell, SD; two children, Ron (Lynda) LaFortune, Mitchell, SD, Reginald (Kim) LaFortune, Mitchell, SD; eight grandchildren; several great grandchildren.

Wally was preceded in death by his son, Wallace Jr., his parents, a brother, Earl LaFortune, and two nieces, Dorothy and Jeannette.