James Walter Estell

James Walter Estell (Papa Jim) 64 of North Port, Florida, passed away January 9, 2013 after a courageous battle with cancer. James was born March 15, 1948 in Osceola, Arkansas. At a very young age the family moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan where he grew up and graduated from Benton Harbor High School. After graduation, James enlisted in the United States Air Force and served in Vietnam. He received the National Defense Medal, Vietnam service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Service Medal. James was an accomplished businessman, his firm Estell & Associates wrote accounting software and consultant services for numerous firms in Michigan. James will be remembered by his kind heart, his love of cooking and entertaining family and friends. Being an accomplished musician & vocalist, he would often burst into song (Usually Luther Vandross) to the delight of his guest. He rarely missed a U of M football game and proudly displayed their colors. He is survived by his loving wife Deborah, His children, Jajuana (Tony) McLean, Angela (Al) Strong, Angela Kintigh, Heather Burch, Anthony Estell, Matthew Estell, Leisa Estell, an...[more]

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hala Estell, 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; Rufus Estell and AV "Pat" McClain; step-father, Eddie McClain, and grand-daughter Antoinette Mitchell. Visitation Thursday, January 24, 2013 from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home 1935 Tamiami Trail. Venice, Florida. Graveside services will follow at 2:30 p.m. with full Military Honors at Sarasota National Cemetery 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, Florida Please visit the online tribute for James Walter Estell at www.kays-ponger.com Arrangements by Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home and cremation services. Port Charlotte Chapel.