Obituary of Edward Hans Earl LaFayette

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of an amazing man. Ed passed away on Monday, February 24, 2020. He was born and raised on the family farm near McGee; the LaFayette’s being the first African Canadians to settle in Saskatchewan. At the young age of fourteen, Ed left the farm and moved to Regina where he worked in construction and hauled gravel with his father, Karl LaFayette. Within just a few years, Ed became a roofing contractor and successfully owned and operated his own business from 1972 until his retirement in 2014. He was a well-known and highly-regarded businessman who served numerous times on various construction associations and organizations at municipal, provincial and national levels. He received professional recognition and earned the accolades of his peers many times during his years in the industry. There are many words to describe Ed: honest, genuine, kind, strong, considerate, patient, funny, a saint, a man of integrity, a great man lovingly known by his dearest friends as “King Edward.” He loved his family and helped raise three children, three step-children and a grandson. He enjoyed spending time with his family sometimes attending their sporting events, graduations and celebrations and sometimes spending a quiet popcorn-and-movie night on the sofa. He was an avid golfer (often the best dressed on the course!) and enjoyed traveling. He was a loyal fan who cheered for the Riders and the Canadiens. Ed leaves behind: Sherry (Chris), Quinn (Jeff) Deklan and Laughlin, Logan; Desiree (Pat), Ethan; Guy (Jesse); Eddie (Ashley), Colby; Jaryn, Jacob and Zachary; Beckie (Dave), and Abbigail; his siblings: Lewis (Charline), Arnold (Claire), Vera, Isobel, Carol, Shirley, David (Nuala); a large network of nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends; and his beloved wife, Heather as well as her extended family. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the many, many medical professionals, health administrators and care givers involved in Ed’s journey these past two and half years. Some of you are angels doing more than your job requires and/or doing it with compassion and grace. You know who you are and so do we. Thank you. Friends and family are invited to a come-and-go Celebration of Ed’s life at the Speers Family Centre, 2333 Cornwall Street, Regina, SK, on Saturday, March 7, 2020 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. There will be a brief program at 2:30 p.m.