George Edward Anziano Jr.

ESCANABA — Gitchi Manitou called George Edward Anziano Jr. (Ogeemaa Binase) home on June 10, 2016, due to complications following a motorcycle accident, to, once again, be in the arms of his mother, Yvonne Mae Kessick LaPalm, and father, George Edward Anziano, who both preceded him in death.

George was transferred to University of Michigan Hospital where he peacefully began his journey. George was born June 23, 1955 in Escanaba. He grew up in the Escanaba area and attended Escanaba High School, but joined the U.S. Navy before graduation. George worked many jobs throughout his life such as a welding teacher at Grand Rapids Inter-Tribal Center and Youth Substance Abuse Counselor in Hannahville, but his true calling was always helping others find their way. He also had his own business before he took ill and ultimately required a liver transplant, which he successfully had in August 2013.

Ogeemaa Binase was a citizen of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians of Harbor Springs, Michigan. He also was second degree within the Midewewin Lodge. Loved by many, and too humble to use titles, Ogeemaa Binase was a Spiritual Leader and Healer who helped many across this country to overcome their addictions and lead a more balanced and productive life. Through his travels over the years, he was able to provide guidance and support where others failed.

George was bigger than life itself to those who knew and loved him leaving many wonderful memories forever in their hearts. George is survived by his children, Arron (Amanda) Anziano of Iron Mountain, Nikia (Cliff) Anziano of Billings, Mont., Tonka (Spencer) Kruger of Lake Odessa, Mich., Joshua (Tammy) Corrigan of Duluth, Minn., Pamela (Malinda) Aichinger of Richland, Wash., Joshua (Shelly) Zeits of Delton, Mich., Jason (Stacie) Stafford of Kingsford, and Ogeemabinase (Courtney) Anziano of Hannahville. George is also survived by his sister, Debbie Anziano DeLeon of Petoskey; three brothers, James (Cora) Weissgerber of Marinette, Wis., Gerald (Geri) LaPalm of Escanaba, and Daniel (Tammy) LaPalm of Two Rivers, Wis.; two step- sisters Gayla (Leland) Louis of Gladstone, and Sharon McMillie of Carney; step-brother Harlan (Mary Lou) LaPalm of Bark River; his long-time friend who was always there for him, Tamara Forbes; 25 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition, Cochise, as he was fondly known, also leaves behind many brothers and sisters in his A.R.M. family.

Traditional burial services were held at the Hannahville Indian Community Center in Hannahville in June right after he began his journey home. Dwight (Bucko) Teeple officiated.

Friends wishing to remember George with a charitable contribution are asked to consider the University of Michigan Transplant Center Liver Fund.