JAMES GEORGE EDWARD SHAWANIBIN

James George Edward Shawanibin of Lansing, Michigan; formerly of Wikwemikong, passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 2, 2014 at the age of 69. James was born to the late John and Rosalie (Shawana) Shawanibin on June 14, 1944 in Wikwemikong, Ontario. He served in the United States Army and was a Vietnam Veteran, doing two active tours of duty. He also was the recipient of the Purple Heart. James worked at GM for 43.9 years, and was a member of the 602 UAW Union. He was active in his community, serving as an AA Mentor, acted as a Chair Person for three years at Westhouse AA and attended Native Elders luncheons. He had many interests, including hockey, playing the guitar and Johnny Cash tunes. James loved his dogs, Albert and Jackson. James was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Mary Lynn (Sharon) Mahgagahbow. Surviving to cherish his memory are children, Stephanie Shawanibin, Jason Shawanibin, and Kayla Blackfoot; step-daughter, Fay Rivers. Loved by his grandchildren, Andrew, Jacob, Shyan, Sienna, John, Kenneth, Delores, Dalton, Caleb and great-grandchildren, Kaneshia, Kane, and Waaseya. Remembered by his sister Doreen, predeceased by siblings, Celina, John and Joyce. Will be missed by dear friends, Sharon and Kari, and many other family members and friends. A funeral service was held on Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at 6 pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Lansing, MI. Visitation was from 4 pm Wednesday, February 5, 2014 and Thursday, February 6, 2014 at St. Ignatius Church, Buzwah. Funeral Service was at 11 am on Friday, February 7, 2014 at Holy Cross Mission. Cremation. Arrangements entrusted to Island Funeral Home, Little Current.