James David Morsette, Lance Corporal, USMC (1957-1961) also known as "Ki-Yus-Tas" (Generous Chief of the South), a proud member of the Chippewa-Cree from Rocky Boys Reservation, answered the Creator's call on May 21, 2024.

Jim has been welcomed by his parents, Ida Katherine Gardipee Morsette and Joseph David Morsette, and his siblings: brothers Francis, Edward, Danny, and Richard; and sisters Jeannie, Catherine, Virginia, and Dorothy. He is also reunited with his daughters JoAnne, Ebony, and son Carlo, who journeyed before him.

Jim is survived by include his beloved wife, Fran; his brother Victor; his sisters Delene and Doris (Ted Gomez); his sons Joseph, Remy, Raven, Calvin, and Michael; and his daughters Benita, Sophia, Evie, and Sunshine and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Jim dedicated himself to helping others overcome addiction by serving as the Director at the Thunderbird House on Beacon Hill in Seattle Washington. He later attended the University of Washington, which eventually led him to become a Tribal prosecutor for the Chippewa-Cree Tribe.

Jim was later elected to the Business Committee and after his tenure on the council, he became the Manager then Director of Water Resources. Among his many achievements, Jim was most proud of his work on water rights, particularly his involvement in the construction of the Boneau Dam and East Fork.

In his personal life, Jim enjoyed hunting, trapping, fishing, golfing, and he was known for his sense of humor, political commentary, and no-nonsense attitude. He received numerous awards and recognitions for his dedicated service and contributions to his community.

Jim's legacy of service, dedication, and love for his community will always be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held at Holland & Bonine from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, May 24, 2024, and his funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, also at Holland & Bonine Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be streamed online on Holland & Bonine Funeral Home's Facebook page.  Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with services and arrangements.  Please visit Jim's online memorial page to send a card or leave a message of condolence for his family at www.hollandbonine.com.