Obituaries

Lou Ann DeGrand, age 68, of Naubinway, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026, with her husband by her side. She was born on December 22, 1957, in Manistique, Michigan. Lou Ann was the daughter of the late Henry and Lucy (Gould) Swanson.

Lou Ann was raised in the Manistique area and graduated from Manistique High School with the Class of 1976.

On July 31, 1976, Lou Ann married Donald DeGrand in Manistique, beginning a long partnership that brought her much joy and fulfillment. After a few years in Wisconsin, they returned to Manistique and then resided in Gladstone for thirty-six years where they raised three sons, Dan, Mike, and Dave DeGrand. Lou Ann cherished time spent with family, and especially her granddaughter.

Lou Ann loved to cook and bake, and was known for her special fudge, cookies, and brownies. She worked as a deli cook and restaurant cook. She liked to spend time in the outdoors and enjoyed camping and hiking, attending country music festivals, traveling across the country with her husband and dog in their motorhome, and spending the winter months in Florida and Alabama. She was always up for a casino trip, and she loved camping in the Soo where the freighters pass by.

Lou Ann is survived by her husband, Don; three sons, Dan (Christie) DeGrand of Gladstone, Michigan, Mike DeGrand of Dimondale, Michigan, and Dave (Tia) DeGrand of Novi, Michigan; sisters, Lorna (Gary) Lander of Manistique, Sandy (Bill) Orr of Manistique, and Jane (Greg) Kass of Slinger, Wisconsin; brothers, Rick (Sharon) Swanson of Manistique and Alfred (Marry Martilla) Swanson of Gulliver, Michigan; and her granddaughter, Elaine DeGrand of Novi, who held a special place in her heart.

Lou Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Lucy; sister, Debbie (Vernon) Gould; and brother, Henry (Brenda) Swanson.

Lou Ann had a way to light up a room and bring warmth and joy to her beloved family and friends. She will be remembered by family and friends for her cheerful spirit , strength, and caring nature and she will be missed by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Lou Ann’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Manistique Comfort Inn, 617 E. Lakeshore Dr., Manistique, MI, 49854.

Memorial contributions in Lou Ann’s honor can be made to the Parkinson Foundation at parkinson.org.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.