Obituaries

Arthur John Leighton, age 61, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, died on October 15, 2026, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was born on February 7, 1965, in Flint, Michigan, to Arthur and Beatrice (Andrews) Leighton.

Arthur grew up in Clio, Michigan, and graduated from Carroll High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He proudly served in the United States Army with the 3rd Infantry Division as a medic. A few months after his discharge from the Army, his sister, Kim, introduced him to Jennifer “Jenny.” The two were married on August 10, 1991.

Arthur continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in history from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, and a Ph.D. from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. He dedicated much of his professional life to education and historical research, working as an educator at Bay Mills Community College in Brimley, Michigan; St. Francis College in Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Defiance College in Defiance, Ohio. He later worked for the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians as a tribal historian before beginning his career with the federal government as a historian for the Department of the Interior, where he remained until his medical retirement in 2020.

Arthur was a proud member of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. He was also a member of the Sugar Island Historical Society and Sacred Heart Church, where he generously volunteered his time. He was a founding member of Book Club 2.0 and had a great appreciation for the Library of America.

Arthur had many interests, including reading, historical research, music, cooking, genealogy, graphic novels, political science, and engaging conversations. He had an extensive book collection and enjoyed playing board games and role-playing games with family and friends. An enthusiast of animals and wildlife, Arthur especially enjoyed watching birds and had a special fondness for his cats. He was also an avid rower, logging an impressive eight million meters on his Hydrow rowing machine.

Arthur was deeply loved by those who knew him. A natural peacemaker, he never knew an enemy and had a way of treating everyone he met like an old friend. He was a man of strong convictions and many passions, including his faith, politics, his tribe, Detroit Tigers baseball, and a cold beer. His kindness, welcoming nature, and ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Throughout his life, Arthur was blessed with family and friends who offered their love and unwavering support. During his courageous fight with cancer, his sister, Kim; brother-in-law, Jerry; cousin, Cecil; coworker, Wendy; and his book club friends provided exceptional care, comfort, and encouragement. Their love and support meant so much to Arthur and his family.

Arthur is survived by his wife, Jennifer; son, Charles Leighton of Sugar Island, Michigan; daughter, Claire Leighton of Sugar Island; parents, Arthur and Beatrice; and sister, Kim (John) Bozich of Portland, Oregon.

Arthur was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph and Josephine Andrews, and Arthur and Emily Leighton; father-in-law, Raymond Johnson; nephew, Heath Knecht; and many beloved aunts and uncles.

Rosary will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM at the Niigaanagiizhik Cultural Building, 11 Ice Circle Chi Mukwa, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. A Memorial Gathering will begin at 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM.

Arthur’s final resting place will be at Wilwalk Cemetery on Sugar Island, Michigan.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of the Sault Tribe Health Center and Mackinac Straits Oncology for the excellent care and compassion they provided to Arthur throughout his illness.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.