James Levi Kauenhowen

The family of James Levi Kauenhowen would like to announce the peaceful passing of their husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at the Bethesda Personal Care Home, in Steinbach, Manitoba.

James is survived by wife Mary (nee Giesbrecht) Daughter Cindy & Ike Froese; Ryley & Madi; Dawsyn & Taylor with Bostyn & Scotty; Jasper & Jayme. Daughter Niki Guerrero; Brittany & Nathan Hiebert with Brycen, Arieanna & Seraphiina; Brent with Wednesday; Julian; Caleb; Son Matt & Jackie Kauenhowen; Natasha, Rebecca, Zachary, Cassandra. Brother: Tony Kauenhowen with Carson & Andrea                

Predeceased by his parents Abraham & Mary Kauenhowen and in-laws John & Justina Giesbrecht.

James was born in Steinbach on June 18th, 1952. He was adopted at birth by Abraham & Mary Kauenhowen, and they raised him in the Steinbach area. He spent his summers working on a farm during his childhood. He was baptized in the spring of 1971, and shortly after, on July 3rd, 1971, he married Mary. They lived in a few places and raised their family of three children. In town, on the farm, and later after his health declined back in Steinbach.

James considered himself a hobby farmer; he loved buying animals at Grunthal Auction Mart—they were often misfits. He also loved tractors, although he did not have the patience to fix them. New tractors were something he enjoyed bringing home. You never knew what kind he would bring home next. He loved collecting miniature toys and books about tractors and bear attacks.

His favourite spring activity was tilling gardens and making the earth black. James loved camping, and many weekends were spent at Moose Lake with family and friends. He didn’t love fishing as much, but he did love a good fish fry. When his health declined, he found climbing into and out of the boat difficult.

In 2010, his health declined, and they moved to Steinbach, where they helped raise their three beautiful great-grandchildren.

James called himself a friend of many, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to thank Dr. Brittany Penner and the staff at Bethesda Place who cared for him.

A private family memorial will be held.