Duane "Jeff" Laughlin

Duane Jeffery Laughlin passed away on January 4, 2026. He was a grandfather, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend—but more than anything, he was someone who made people feel important and remembered.

Jeff grew up in Harbor Springs and spent time in Colorado before returning to Detroit.

He had a way of letting you know you mattered. Whether it was a late-night text, an unexpected call, you always knew he was thinking about you. No matter what life threw his way, Jeff kept the best attitude.

Jeff loved his son William James Laughlin and grandson Anthony James Laughlin deeply. Family meant everything to Jeff, and he cherished time spent together, especially reminiscing about childhood memories and telling stories.

Jeff made it a point to stay connected with his nieces and nephews, calling often just to check in, laugh, and let them know he was thinking of them. He genuinely cared about their lives and never missed a chance to ask how they were doing. Those calls were small moments that meant a great deal.

Jeff spent his working life in residential construction, roofing, and home improvement, working with various local businesses. He was known for his hard work and extensive knowledge.

Jeff was also a proud tribal member of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, a heritage that was an important part of who he was and carried with him throughout his life.

Preceded him in death, Jeff was reunited with those who went before him, his father, Thomas John Laughlin; his mother, Virginia Janet Kishigo Laughlin; and his brothers, Richard Kevin Laughlin, Christopher Thomas Laughlin, and Brian Michael Laughlin. In addition to his son and grandson, Jeff is survived by his siblings, Barry (Barb) Laughlin, Valerie (Jim) Biro, Sharon (Randy) Miller, Cynthia (Bill) Baten, and Linda Laughlin.

Jeff’s generosity, humor, and love will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His memory lives on in the stories we tell, the laughter he inspired, and the many lives he touched simply by being himself.

There will be a memorial service at Stone Funeral Home (2098 E. Mitchell Road, Petoskey, MI 49770) on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with a one-hour visitation prior to the service.

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