James Kewagshken

James Hershel Kewagshken, 39, of Charlevoix, passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.  He was born on December 19, 1981 in Chicago, IL, the son of Gary Smith and Anna Kewagshken.

James graduated as the valedictorian from Beaver Island Lighthouse School.  He also attended cosmetology school for several semesters.  Many know James from Monte’s Soft Cloth Carwash in Charlevoix, where he had worked as a manager for many years.  He worked for Arnold Amusements for many years as well, and he enjoyed traveling from state to state.  In his free time, he enjoyed playing videogames, picking away on his guitar, hiking, and listening to rock and metal music.  In his younger days, he also liked to skateboard all over town.

James is survived by his mother, Anna Smith of Charlevoix; his son, James Kewagshken Jr.; two brothers, Justin Brown of Maryland and Gary Reiser of South Dakota; and two sisters, Kimberly Smith of Charlevoix and Linda Smith of Charlevoix.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gary Smith; his daughter, Patricia Castaneda; two sisters, Marlene Kewagshken and April Cross; his maternal grandparents, Hershel and Betty Kewagshken; and his paternal grandparents, Joe and Helen Smith.

Funeral services will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 24, 2021 at the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Visitation will be held from 12 noon until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family.

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