On October 13, 2007, Jacques Lavertue passed away at home surrounded by his family after a courageous eight-month battle with cancer. He was 53. Jacques is survived by his loving wife, Caroline; son, Alexander; sister, Lise and father, Armand. With his deep passion for adventure and keen business acumen, Jacques lived many a lifetime in one that ended too soon.

He was a leader in the industries in which he worked, from information technology to footwear and apparel; his relationships span the globe. After moving from Montreal, Canada to lead the Merrell brand, he was very proud to become an American citizen. As President and General Manager of The Outdoor Group at Wolverine World Wide, Inc., he was an icon in the Footwear and Outdoor industries, and will forever be remembered for the love he exhibited for the Merrell brand and team.

His zest for life and speed was transparent in his many hobbies: skiing, cycling, golf, hockey, cars and motorcycles. Friends and family will fondly remember him for his focus and fortitude and the intensity in which he approached every pursuit, professional and personal. He loved his son, Alex more than life and insured that his every wish was met. Jacques will forever be missed but never forgotten. Memorial services will be held at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Helen DeVos Children's Hospital Foundation (Pediatric Oncology). 

Donations in Memory of Jacques Lavertue:
    Helen DeVos Children’s Foundation (Pediatric Oncology)
    100 Michigan St. NE
    Grand Rapids, MI 49503