Capt. J. Bishop

Capt. James J. Bishop, 87 of St.Ignace passed away peacefully Friday evening, November 1 at Mackinac Straits Hospital after suffering a stroke on October 19 at his home. He was born in Sault Ste. Marie on April 3,1926 to Capt. Melvin (Mike) and Eileen (Hassett) Bishop. He graduated from St.Leo High School in Chicago and joined the Merchant Marine under the U.S Coast Guard, and then served active duty from 1943 to 1945 , serving in the Atlantic War Zone and the Mediterranean-Middle East War Zone on the John F. Cushing vessel and the Kettle Creek vessel., and was discharged in May 1945 He was then drafted during the Korean War and served until 1952..He was a Licensed Tug Boat Captain, and worked on the Great Lakes until retirement, then was a Captain on the Ferry Boats for many years., both for Arnold Line and Star Line He was also a member of the Seafarers Union.. He also owned the Mail Contracting , United States Postal Service for many years. Capt. Jim was a one man band, and his trumpet will be remembered by many, as he played while driving, and on the boats. He played every car show at the VI, with some of his family, was enjoyed by hundreds of listeners. He was the player of Taps for every veterans funeral while he was home in St.Ignace, and not in Florida.. He is a member of the VFW and American Legion and St.Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church.. On September 25,1954 he married Norma Paquin, and they enjoyed 59 years in September; and she survives. Also 2 daughters, Ann Marie Bishop, Engelwood, Florida; Mary Jo Bishop, Nashville, TN; and a son, James J. Jr.; (Dr.Mary) St.Ignace and Englewood, Florida. one brother, Robert and Pat Bishop, Evergreen Shores; grandchildren; Mary Eileen; Katie; James G; Angela; James J. lll; Kiara; and one great granddaughter, Anna Jean Keel. At his reqeust there will be no services at this time. There will be a gathering next summer on the Lake Shore to remember the great times, and listen to is music and vast repertoire\'.His cremains will be buried at S. Ignatius Cemetery later. Dodson Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Tributes

Capt. J. Bishop

November 1, 2013