Russell Heath Kennedy
Russell Heath Kennedy, 51, of Bradenton Beach, died Feb. 14. He was born Aug. 18, 1964.
Services were held March 19 at Harvey Memorial Community Church in Bradenton Beach. Memorial donations may be sent to Church of the Redeemer Episcopal Apprentice Scholarship Fund, 222 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236.
James Melanson
James “Big Jim” Melanson, 67, previously of Holmes Beach, died March 3.
He was born Aug. 12, 1949, and grew up in Boston.
He worked as a paint contractor, carpenter and plumber throughout his life. Living in Holmes Beach for nearly 20 years, he built a company that employed legions of local painters. One of the many contracts he secured in Manatee County was Tropicana, where he and his team painted for many years.
Later he joined family and helped to open Paradise Bagels Cafe and Catering in Holmes Beach, where patrons could always find him greeting them with a warm smile and a booming laugh.
He loved to spend his off time with family and friends, he loved Harley-Davidson motorcycles, his truck, traveling, the beach, animals — especially his dog Bandit — and children.
A celebration of life was held March 18 at Roser Memorial Community Church in Anna Maria, followed by a reception at sunset at the 77th Street cabana. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of SW Florida.
He is survived by mother, Patti, of Port Richey; two sisters; nieces and nephews; former life partner Jackie Estes of Holmes Beach; and many friends.
Floyd J. Van Winkle
Floyd J. Van Winkle, 92, died March 11.
He was born in Connecticut to William and Arminda.
He enlisted in the U.S. Merchant Marines during World War II and was assigned active duty status.
He repaired lawnmowers and invented a blade to improve mowers. He also worked in construction and was known as “Van, the Aluminum Man.”
He was known for his quick wit and charismatic personality and was a religious man.
A memorial service was scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota. A memorial service with the Rev. Ed Moss officiating will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, April 1, at CrossPointe Fellowship, 8605 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. Arrangements were by Covell Funeral Home.
Survivors include daughters Cyndi Marie and husband Daniel Brindley of Bradenton, and Kathy and husband Bill Shafer of Anna Maria; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.