Dear Classes of 1978 & 1979:

This is a Deacon Alert to inform you of the passing of George LaPalm on Saturday, Sept. 20th.

George was the father of your classmates, Christopher LaPalm ('78) and Suzanne LaPalm ('79).

Obituary:

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Oak Meadows Senior Living facility in Oakdale, MN, on Saturday morning, September 20th, 2025. George was under the compassionate care of St. Croix Hospice during his final days. He was 92 years old.

Early Life and Education
Born on August 22, 1933, in Cohoes, NY, to George LaPalm Sr. and Catherine O’Rourke, George pursued his education with dedication and drive. He graduated from The Christian Brothers Academy High School in Syracuse, NY, in 1951. Continuing his academic journey, he earned both Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and Master's degree in math from the University of Detroit. His passion for learning led him to Purdue University, where he attained a PhD in civil engineering.

Professional Career
George began his teaching career following his graduation in civil engineering at the University of Detroit. After receiving his PhD in Civil Engineering at Purdue University, he taught civil engineering at Michigan State University.  He devoted more than forty years as an Associate Professor of Civil and Construction Engineering at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota, and retired as an Emeritus Professor. George’s dedication to teaching is remembered by his students; one described him as “a good and practical instructor, but you did have to work hard! If you don't want to work hard, he is not the instructor for you.”

Personal Life
George married Annette Verduyn on April 27, 1957 at St. John Berchman Church in Detroit, Michigan. George and Annette shared a love of travel and adventure, exploring the world together. He was an avid cyclist, cross-country skier, and runner, instilling a love of the outdoors and exercise in his children. George’s sense of humor and love of laughter were evident in his enjoyment of comedy and Western television shows, such as The Bob Newhart Show and Gunsmoke. Throughout their 68 years of marriage, George and Annette raised several dachshund dogs, cherishing their companionship. George also found joy in baking his own bread, always preferring it as dense as possible.

Memorials
Memorial contributions in George’s honor may be made to St. Vincent DePaul Society and St. Croix Hospice in Oakdale, MN.

Surviving Family
George is survived by his loving wife Annette, his children Christopher and Suzanne and her husband Pete Schneider, and his seven grandchildren: Jent, Peter, Alex, Morgan, Kimberly, Dennon, and Josephine.

Funeral Service
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior to service, from 10:00 - 11:00 AM at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 8260 4th St. N, Oakdale, MN 55128.  Interment Guardian Angels Cemetery.