James Kenwabikise

James David Kenwabikise, 61, of Charlevoix, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 29, 2022.  He was born on April 12, 1961 on Beaver Island, the son of Paul and Isabelle (Wabanimkee) Kenwabikise.

James was born and raised on Beaver Island.  After he graduated high school, he began working on commercial fishing boats with his dad and brothers, something he very much enjoyed.  James liked travelling and spending time outside any chance he got.  He was most well-known for his talkative nature; he could strike up a conversation with just about anyone.  He was also a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

On August 19, 1989 James married Barbara (Schmidt) Kenwabikise, who survives. Also surviving are four children, Andrew Kenwabikise (fiancé Tara Rabideau) of Charlevoix, Jeffrey (Becka) Kenwabikise of Pellston, Lindsey Kenwabikise of Charlevoix, and Claire Kenwabikise of Charlevoix; a brother, Joey Kenwabikise; four sisters, Caroline (Buck) Ramey, Nancy Harris, Pauline (George) Anthony, and Mary Kenwabikise; four grandchildren, Jayden Gomez, Lucinda Kenwabikise, Kayden Gomez, and Vivienne Kenwabikise; three brother-in-laws, Dan Way, Jack Bray, and Sonic Smith; a sister-in-law, Peggy Kenwabikise; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Margaret Way, Doris Kenwabikise, Sarah Bray, and Diane Smith; and four brothers, Johnny Kenwabikise, Leonard Kenwabikise, Robbie Kenwabikise, and Stephen Kenwabikise.

James’ family will accept friends and visitors on Saturday, July 2 at their home, 6137 Barnard Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720 beginning at 11:00 a.m.  There will be a rosary at 12:30 p.m. and a prayer service at 1:00 p.m. with lunch to follow.  Visitation will continue after lunch until sunset, approximately 9:30 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com