James Edwin Van Kleek passed away unexpectedly in his home on Saturday, October 25nd, 2025. He was 74 years old.

James was born to Esten Van Kleek and Elizabeth (Mobbs) Van Kleek on April 19, 1951, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Pontiac, Michigan, as one of nine children. His parents had purchased land with a camp on it in Ontonagon in the 1950's and so James had visited the area regularly, hunting and fishing, enjoying the nurturing land. He would find as an adult, this was the right place for him to farm the land, hunt and set up life with his future love Annie.

He has two children, Robert (Anila) Bridges and Cindi (Bryan) Shaw, seven grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren and 1 more on the way. He is also survived by three siblings Buddy, Dorothy and Johny as well as numerous nieces and nephews, who he loved very dearly.

He met the love of his life, Annastasia DeGrandchamp, they married and built their lives together, moved to Ontonagon, Michigan in September of 2001 and were married. James was a loving, kind generous man. He was very artistic, in clay, wood and drawing. He aspired to help area youth, giving them stronger roots in both God and family, by nature, hunting and fishing along with sharing his time.  He and his beloved Annie explored their property and used its offerings of firewood, gardening and watching the wildlife to set forth their future. He was active at times with helping with church activities.

All who met him loved him and were changed for the better by having met him. He walked out his faith not in words but in actions. This is the strength he had in God's love.  He had the same love for his family and especially for his Annie and together built the bonds of love that are unbreakable. With great sorrow, he will be greatly missed.

A memorial service is taking place on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at United Methodist Church in White Pine, Michigan with the service at 3:00pm and visitation from 2:00pm - 3:00pm. Pastor Pete LeMoine is officiating. A luncheon/dinner will follow at the church.

Cane Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.