James Michael Bishop

Jan 20, 1954 -

Aug 21, 2020

Our world changed forever on Aug. 21, 2020, when James Michael Bishop, husband, father and Papa, passed away.

Jim was born on Jan. 20, 1954, as the oldest son of Al and JoAnn Bishop in Milwaukee, Wis. He grew up hunting, fishing, playing football and hanging out at the lake in the Midwest. He went to college at University of Wisconsin in Madison, and went on to dental school at Marquette. After graduation, he decided he wanted bigger fish and game than Wisconsin could offer, and he moved to Anchorage, Alaska. In Alaska he made his home, starting his dental practice and raising his three children. He braved the wilds of Alaska with his daughters and son, spending summers boating, fishing and camping, and winters skiing and snowboarding. On Oct. 13, 1994, he met Lissa, the love of his life. They were quickly married and brought their children together to make an amazing, chaotic blended family.

Jim never did anything half-heartedly. Over the years, his hobbies included mountain biking, Jeeps, motorcycles and travel. As his children grew up and made families of their own, he became a grandfather, a job that he was made for. He taught the grandkids to shoot bows and love the outdoors, and was also rumored to have them clean up after the dogs in the yard by calling it "treasure hunting." He also loved his dogs, and was often seen with his chubby pug Winston and tiny chihuahua Lola perched on his lap.

Jim is survived by his wife, Lissa; children, Kaleigh (Aaron), Morgan, Nancy (Don), Summer (Mike), Dustin (Mariko), Chad (Eydie) and Jamison (Brittany); sisters, Merri Jo and Lori; and grandchildren, Kai, Jax, Sophia, Sawyer, Jaida, Ashton, Cruz, Miles, Scout and Samuel. We will be having a private celebration of life with our family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Muscular Dystrophy Association.