James Anderson

James (Jay) Jason Anderson passed away quietly at the age of 47 with his mom and sister at his side. Jay was born on March 5, 1974 at Munson Medical Center. He grew up on Potter Rd and attended Cherry Knoll Elementary School. He spent part of his time at Traverse City High School as it was known back then. He was a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. He was also half Navajo which was on his mother's side from Arizona.

Jay became quite the artist doing painting and drawing of his native background. He also painted a large wall mural for his mother in their dining room which was of a rug from the southwest. He also enjoyed playing the guitar which was self taught. He liked jamming with the music videos on TV. Jay owned a 1974 Harley Davidson that was his pride and joy.

Jay was a painter by trade but he held many jobs over the years. He was a carnie traveling with the carnival and working the rides. He especially enjoyed working at Taylor Guitars in California. His traveling companion was his dog named Meathead, a Rottweiler. They looked out for each other.

When family was over he was quite the jokester. He loved to share old Indian tricks and make people laugh. Being in a room full of family playing cards and laughing made him so happy. Euchre was his favorite game to play. Campfires and beverages were some of his favorite activities.

Jay was preceded in death by his father, James C Anderson; his sister, Tina Anderson-Vaclavik; grandparents and 7 uncles and 4 aunts.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his mother Iva Anderson, sister; Spring Anderson, 4 uncles, 4 aunts, many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A gathering to celebrate Jay's life will be held 12:30 pm until 1:15 pm at Life Story Funeral Home, Saturday, May 29, 2021 with a luncheon to follow at Grace McDonald Park, 131 E. Arbutus Lake Rd. Masks are required at all times with social distancing at the funeral home. Please pay your respects, say hello to the family and allow others to come into the building.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts with the family.