Leonard Michael Kenwabikise, 66, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, August 16, 2018 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born June 7, 1952 to Paul and Isabelle (Wabanimkee) Kenwabikise in Beaver Island, Michigan. He married Peggy McNees on August 29, 1970 at the First Church of God in South Haven. Leonard worked at Lovejoy Manufacturing in South Haven for 44 years before his retirement in 2015. Leonard was a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. He enjoyed hunting, golfing, and fishing. He especially cherished his time spent with his grandchildren. Leonard had many friends.
He is preceded in death along with his parents by his great granddaughter – Annabelle Kenwabikise and siblings – John, Robbie, Stevie, and Doris Kenwabikise and Margaret Way.
Leonard is survived by his wife of 48 years – Peggy Kenwabikise of South Haven, children – Tony (Gail Gumpert) Kenwabikise of South Haven and Tracy Kenwabikise of South Haven, grandchildren – Austin Kenwabikise, Michael Stephens, and Riley and Kyle King, great grandchildren – Kaedin and Chayton Kenwabikise, and siblings – Caroline (Buck) Ramey, Nancy (Denney) Harris, Pauline (George) Anthony, Sarah Bray, Diane (Sonic) Smith, Mary Kenwabikise-Halpen, Joey Kenwabikise, and Jimmie (Barb) Kenwabikise.
Visitation will be held from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM on Monday, August 20, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 4:30 PM with Pastor Gary Guthrie officiating at the funeral home. A Native American Sacred Fire Burning is taking place at the family home until the time of services.