James L. Kitchen

James L. Kitchen, age 81, passed away on Friday, March 30, 2018 at the West Branch Regional Medical Center. He was born on February 18, 1937 in Petoskey, MI to Leamon and Enola Kitchen. He had lived in St. Helen since 1989, formerly of Saline. He served in the Navy from Nov. 11, 1956 until Nov. 10, 1960. James married Patricia Caughhorn in Saline, MI on April 17, 1989. He was a carpenter by trade for 37 years. He loved to go fishing, hunting, trapping and looking for mushrooms. James also was an avid bird watcher and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was best known for being humble, kind and strong willed.

James is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Patricia; sons, James (Kellie) Kitchen Jr., Christopher Kitchen, and Brian (Lisa) Kitchen; daughters, Debra Stern, Michelle (Frank) Moning, and Cindy (Don) Koloski; step daughter, Donna Norris; step sons, Steven Norris and Christopher (Alicia Tyler) Murray; brother, David Kitchen; sisters, Sharon Curtiss and Linda Kitchen; 18 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Leamon and Enola Kitchen; brother in-law, Dan Curtiss; sister, Nola Snider; and step daughter, Ellen Nichols.

A Graveside Memorial Service will be held at a later date at Alanson-Littlefield Cemetery.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in St. Helen. Online Condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com