Jesse Allen Kewagshken

Jesse Allen Kewagshken of Charlevoix, age 36, passed away on January 20, 2026, at home and surrounded by family.

Jesse was born on February 10, 1989, to Kenneth Joseph Kewagshken and Donita Powless. Well-traveled in his youth, Jesse grew up in the towns of Chicago, Alba, Traverse City, and eventually Charlevoix, where he graduated from Beaver Island Lighthouse School. He participated in the Young Marines with his twin Jeannine and brother Cletus, taking part in several parades with the organization in Traverse City.

Jesse was a man with a loving spirit and good heart. He greatly valued his culture as part of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, and was known to get along with everyone he met, easily making people laugh or putting them at ease with his gentle temperament. He held a variety of jobs throughout his life, but his true passion was living life to the fullest. He enjoyed video games, breakdancing, and participating in family gatherings whenever he had the opportunity. He also loved traveling with both family and friends.

Jesse was also an avid music lover. He loved rap, and his favorite artist was Michael Jackson. A basketball fan and player as well, Jesse also loved Michael Jordan. He also greatly valued his time spent with his daughter.

Jesse is survived by his daughter, Dezirahe Kewagshken; his aunt, Anna Smith; siblings Jeannine Kewagshken, Cletus George “Turtle” Kewagshken, and Raven Roberts; cousins Kimberly Smith and Linda Smith; nephew Maurice Joseph Bradford, and mother Donita Powless.

He is preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Kewagshken; grandmother Betty Kewagshken; and nephew Markus Jacob Kewagshken.

Services will take place for Jesse on January 24, 2026, at Stone Funeral Home in Petoskey, Michigan. Visitation begins at 10:00 AM, with the funeral service starting at 11:00 AM. The funeral will be officiated by Pastor Sam McClellan.

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