James Edward 'Jim' Michael, 53

James Edward "Jim" Michael, 53, passed away Monday, March 26, 2007, at his residence in Kalispell. He was born Nov. 22, 1953, at Ernest Harmon Air Force Base in Newfoundland, the son of James H. and Joan P. (Giles) Michael.

Jim attended grades one through eight at Somers School. He graduated from Flathead High School. He had several jobs before he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was an engine mechanic aboard the USS Sperry.

He married Marudy DiTolla, and they later divorced. They have one son, James R. Michael.

As a young boy, he was a Boy Scout with Troop 88 of Somers. He hiked twice through the Bob Marshall Wilderness to earn his 50 mile hike merit badge. One trip was made with his dad.

He was preceded in death by a son, Rudy James Michael; and his father, James H. Michael.

Survivors include his son, James Michael; his mother, Joan Michael, both of Somers; sisters, Christine Ann of El Paso, Texas, Jennice Diane of Olympia, Wash., Patricia Jean and Deborah Kay, both of Somers, Darlene Marie of Swindon, England, and Jennifer Ann of Maryland; a brother, David Brian, of Kalispell; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services for James will be held at a later date.

Johnson Mortuary and Crematory is caring for James' family.