Leone F. James

Leone F. James, 78, of Keshena, passed away Monday afternoon, Dec. 7, 2020, at Birch Hill Care Center in Shawano. Leone was born Dec. 27, 1941, in Keshena, a daughter of the late William and Rose (Tucker) Wilber. She attended grade school in Milwaukee before moving to Keshena in her high school years. Following high school, Leone worked as a waitress at the L&L Restaurant in Shawano. On March 26, 1969, she was united in marriage to Gordon James Sr. in Gresham. Following their marriage, the couple lived in Keshena, where Leone worked as a CNA and a school bus driver. She then went to work as a teacher’s aide for many years at the tribal elementary school. She is a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Keshena. Leone loved listening to country music and watching scary movies. She enjoyed journaling and taking rides in the woods with her family members. Leone adored celebrating the holidays with her family and friends. Survivors include her children, Chief Oskäs (Pat Peters and his significant other, Carolina), of Keshena, Denise (Steve) Crowe, of Appleton, Randy (Rose) Peters, Kandi (Ray) Peters, Gordon James Jr., Richard James and Marlin James, all of Keshena, Karen James, of Shawano, and stepson, Gordon Pocan, of Keshena; 40 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Leone was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon, on Dec. 4, 2019; her daughter, Jessie Lynn James; her son, Tracy A. Peters; her granddaughters, Christy Dawn King and Gwendolyn Amber Peters; and grandson, Albert Patrick “Muggers” Waupoose Sr. Traditional Native American services for Leone will be held Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, at 10:45 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery in Keshena. John Teller will officiate. The family will greet friends at the cemetery after 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the family requires masks be worn while in attendance and social distancing will be enforced at the gravesite. Mickelson Funeral and Cremation Service of Shawano is assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences at www.mickelsonfs.com.