LAKE LEELANAU — Juli Anne Bemis, 69, of Lake Leelanau, passed away on Friday, September 27, 2024, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.

Juli was born on April 15, 1955, in Traverse City to Carl and Geraldine (Beckwith) Kiessel. On January 17, 2020, in Phoenix, Arizona, she married the love of her life, LeRoy C. Bemis, who survives her.

Juli’s passion for education was reflected in her career. She started as a high school teacher before transitioning to teaching college courses online in Glendale, Arizona. Juli retired from a 30 year public education teaching career and in retirement taught online education courses for Rio Salado College. Her dedication and skill as an educator were recognized when she received the prestigious Presidential Teaching Award from Barbara Bush in 1991.

Though she spent much of her life in Arizona, Juli’s heart always belonged to Leelanau County. She and Lee cherished their visits back to Michigan, as Traverse City was her birthplace and as a baby she moved away and only returned in her 60’s. Juli and Lee eventually bought their dream home in Lake Leelanau. Juli found great joy in watching Lee work on their home, and they loved inviting friends to share time with them on the lake, a place that brought her peace and happiness.

After retiring from teaching, Juli worked part-time at Bahle’s in Suttons Bay, where she found fulfillment in the camaraderie with her coworkers and her passion for fashion. She was always impeccably dressed, with a keen eye for style, and enjoyed stopping by Hive Coffee for her signature cinnamon latte. She connected with the Hive community immediately and her corner spot will be named Juli’s Corner with a photo on the wall in her memory.

Juli’s love extended to her four beloved cats —Timmy, Micky “McMuffin”, IggyPop, and Michelle. They were her pride and joy. Juli is survived by her husband, LeRoy Bemis; her son, Jordan Dickson, his wife Angelique, and her sister, Debra Jo (Richard) Dewey. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Geraldine Kiessel.

Her gift of giving continues through her decision to be an organ donor.

Cremation has taken place, and private family services have been held.

Please share condolences with the family at www.martinson.info Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home of Leelanau.