James Boone

James Daniel Boone, known as Daniel to many friends in Florida and as Jim or “Big Jim” to family and friends in Michigan, passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born January 4, 1938, in Bingham Township, Leelanau County, Michigan, he was the son of Daniel Joseph and Lucille Audrie (Witkop) Boone. He graduated from Traverse City Area Public Schools before moving to Florida, where he became the owner of Boone’s Heavy Dredging in Astor. A man of deep faith, he attended Astor Baptist Church, where he served as Choir Director and Deacon, and was also an active member of the Masons.

Jim returned to the Traverse City area in 2008. On June 11, 2010, he married Elizabeth “Betsy” Lea Gionet, and together they shared sixteen years of love, laughter, companionship, and adventure. Though they stood at very different heights, Big Jim and Little Betsy walked through life side by side with humor, devotion, and deep love. Along the way, they even enjoyed the occasional lawnmower race.

Family was always at the center of Jim’s life. During his mother’s later years, he and Betsy visited her often. Their time together was frequently spent playing cards and, most importantly, singing. Jim loved to sing to his mother, and she loved hearing him sing. One day she called and told him she needed him to come right away. Concerned, he rushed to her side only to discover that she simply wanted him to sing her a song. It meant a great deal to Jim that his mother, Lucille, then 100 years old, was able to share in his wedding day with Betsy.

Jim was known for his love of music and gospel singing. His music brought joy to countless friends, family members, and fellow church members over the years. He enjoyed hunting, golfing, and cooking—especially pancakes, banana bread, and goulash. Loved by many friends, he will be remembered for his larger-than-life presence, warm heart, booming singing voice, and the friendships he cherished throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Boone; children, Gwen (Dave) Ruhl, Debbie Freeman, Steve Boone, and Daniel Boone; stepchildren, Arthur (Tina) Fournier, Cherise Fitzgerald, Victor Fournier, Karen Bartz, Rhonda Tomlinson, and Julie (Michael) Petersen; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel Joseph and Lucille Audrie Boone; a stepdaughter, Linda Hanna; and all of his siblings: Dean L. Boone, Duane L. Boone, Dora Ann Boone Bean, and Wendell G. Boone.

Private burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in Grawn, Michigan.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Volusia Lodge No. 77, Free and Accepted Masons, 210 E. SR 40, Pierson, Florida 32180.

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