James Arthur Cote
October 11, 1927 — July 18, 2005
James Arthur "Big Thunder" Cote, 77, of L'Anse, "walked-on" Monday morning, July 18, 2005, at his home.
He was born October 11, 1927, in Escanaba, a son of the late William and Elizabeth (Head) Madosh. Jim was raised in Baraga County and lived here most of his life. In 1972 he married the former Jacquilin Emery in L'Anse and she preceded him in death in December of 1983.
He was employed for 17 years as an operator with the Michigan Department of Transportation. Jim worked in the Covington and L'Anse garages prior to his retirement in February of 1989.
Jim was a veteran of the Army, a member of the Ojibwa Senior Citizens and enjoyed spending time at "The Office" which is what he called the L'Anse VFW. He also enjoyed driving in the woods, comic books, John Wayne movies, teaching his kids how to drive and spending time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by 6 children, Cathy Cote of Ishpeming, James (Kim Gauthier) Cote, Jr of L'Anse, Tim Cote of Marquette, Tammy (Michael) Seymour of Harvey, Patti Cote of Zeba and Danielle (Jeff Owens) Cote of Zeba; 16 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. A daughter, Lillian "Cede" Voakes; sisters, Helen Shannon, Harriet Geroux and Peggy Chosa; and brothers, George "McGee" Madosh, Clifford Madosh and Hubert "Jug Head" Madosh preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 21, 2005 from 6 to 8 pm in the Most Holy Name of Jesus Church. Local veterans will provide the military rites at 7 pm at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 11 am in the church with Rev. Augustine officiating. Interment will be in the Pinery Cemetery.