James Wesley Waulkazoo, of Interlochen, died Jan 14, 2020. He was born to Sylvia Jean Waukazoo at James Decker Hospital in Traverse City.
In 1953 he was moved to the Elliot's home in Buckley with his two sisters. He attended the Buckley schools, played on the high school basketball team and graduated with the class of 1963.
He honorably served in the US Navy. He worked as a baker at the Interlochen Music Camp. He met his wife, Lois Milton, and they married in Jul 1967. They celebrated 52 years together sharing their love and commitment to Christ every day. Together they raised two sons, Jamie and Steve. Jim was a proud father of his boys and loved spending time with them.
Jim was a minister in the Community of Christ Church at Inland. He was a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and the Elders Advisory Organization. He was also a member of the Eagle Town Post 120, where he served as chaplain.
Jim and Lois enjoyed many activities with friends at the Benzie Elders Programs. They attended camp and events at their church, Park of the Pines in Charlevoix. Jim shared his native culture with his friends. In 1982, after looking for his younger siblings, Jim was able to have his mother, brothers, and sisters together for a family reunion.
He held Sunday afternoon services at the Maples in Frankfort. He loved visiting people and sharing his life.
Jim is survived by his son, Jamie; siblings, Patricia "Patty" Putney, Ella Germaine and Clifford "Jack" Swanson; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, Steven; wife, Lois (Milton); mother, Sylvia Waukazoo Swanson; siblings, Sylvia, Elena, Rosemary Waukazoo, LaRita Swanson, JOhn Waukazoo, and Tom McKewin; aunt Violet Waukazoo; and uncle, Richard Harp.
Funeral services will be held at 11 am Sat, Jan 25, at the Jowett Family Funeral Home, with Michael Mead officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Inland Township Cemetery this spring.
