Lane Donald Valliere

Lane D. Valliere, age 74, of Bay City, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous eight-month battle with lung cancer.

Born on November 9, 1951, in Camp Atterbury, Indiana, Lane was the son of the late Donald and Madeline (Kuch) Valliere.

Lane built a long and meaningful career in television, serving as a director at TV 5 from 1975 until his retirement in 2017. Outside of work, music was a lifelong passion. His love of guitars led him to a large collection at one time. He began playing bass in eighth grade with a band called Blues Company, which later became known as Shades of Night, and music continued to be an important part of his life. He continued to play at different venues with the most recent being at Scotty’s Sandbar for a fundraiser with Jim & Brian’s band in October 2024.

Lane was also a devoted longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church. He loved all animals and nature. Every morning he had to feed the birds and squirrels. He enjoyed photography and videography. There wasn’t a day that went by when he wasn’t taking a photo or video to send to someone. He enjoyed collecting books about Michigan history and antiques, also attending estate sales, and watching the Detroit Tigers & Lions.

More than anything, Lane cherished his family and friends. He especially treasured attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, band performances, and choir concerts, always proudly cheering them on. Kind, generous, and compassionate, he was always ready to lend a hand and had a special way of making others feel cared for. His warmth and willingness to help touched countless lives and made him deeply loved and respected.

Left to cherish his memory is the love of his life of 22 years, Linda (Guettler) Valliere; his children, Chad Valliere and Ashley (Steve) Wisniewski; his stepchildren, Jeff Lang, Ryan (Sue) Lang, and Chad Lang; his grandchildren, Kaylee Valliere, Jayden Valliere, Evan Wisniewski, Andrew Wisniewski, Noah Wisniewski, Brooke (Jean) Lang, and Michael Lang; his sister, Jan Heil; his nephew, Jason (Lauren) Heil; his niece, Alilyn (Kevin) Quinn; aunts, uncles, cousins and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, Lane was preceded in death by his brother, Alan Valliere, and his niece, Jodi Heil.

Lane’s family is deeply grateful to his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Cindy (Jeff), Connie (Rick), Carrie (Dave), and Dale (Jill); his best friends, Clint, Craig and Terry; Pastor Phillip Baerwolf; and many more close friends and wonderful neighbors whose friendship, love, and support brought comfort throughout his illness.

The family also extends sincere appreciation to the staff of First State Hospice, especially Ben Nolan, Carrie Skufca, and Sarah Short, for the compassionate care and support they gave Lane and his loved ones.

In keeping with Lane’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Gephart Funeral Home, with Pastor Phillip Baerwolf officiating. Friends may visit with the family at the funeral home from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Lane’s honor may consider Zion Lutheran Church or Shelter Angels in Linwood.

Lane will always be remembered for his devotion to family, his generous spirit, and his gentle heart. The kindness he shared and the difference he made in the lives of others will remain a lasting part of his legacy. He will be so sadly missed.