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Roland Leo LaMotte, 81

Roland Leo LaMotte, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 9, 2017. Roland was born Aug. 5, 1936, in Orly, France, to Alfreda and Leo LaMotte. He was raised in France until he was 12 years old. His family then moved to Wayne, Mich.

Roland served in the United States Army and the Army National Guard where he received an honorable discharge. Roland worked for the Ford Motor Company in Michigan for 32 years. After retirement from Ford, Roland moved to Florida.

While living in Florida, Roland met and fell in love with Judith Ann. They were married in Brooksville, Fla., surrounded by family and friends.

Roland had three loves; Judie, golf and French wine. While living in Florida, Roland was a member of the Brookridge Golf and Country Club, Hernando Beach Club and a valued member of the Moose Lodge.

Roland had always dreamed of someday living in Idaho. Many years ago, when his children were young, they often camped on a piece of property he owned in Saint Maries.

Two years ago Roland and Judie moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho where his dream was fulfilled, which also allowed them to be closer to family.

Roland is survived by his wife, Judie; sister, Liliane (Mark) Schmaus of Gladwin, Mich.; daughter Tina (Skip) Goulding; treasured granddaughter, Alexis Goulding of Chelsea, Mich.; daughter, Denise LaMotte (David Newhouse) of Plymouth, Mich.; granddaughter, Megan (George) Kounnas and great-granddaughter, Eleni Kounnas of Connecticut.

Roland was blessed to have stepchildren that also loved and respected him, Jon Atchison (Renee Taylor) of Coeur d’Alene, Debbie (Charlie) Fisher of Coeur d’Alene; 7 grandchildren and 3 great- grandchildren.

Roland was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor on Sept. 12, 2017. He was immediately surrounded by his children, sister and numerous extended family and friends. The love he felt could not be measured. He passed away peacefully at home in the arms of his wife.

Roland received remarkable care from Hospice of North Idaho.

There will be a celebration of life held in Brooksville, Fla., just after the New Year. There he will be celebrated by his friends, golf buddies and numerous family members. The exact date will soon be determined.

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Please visit Roland’s online Memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com