James T. Kartes, age 76, passed away early on Sunday morning, May 29, 2016 in Westfield, IN.
“Jim” Kartes was born January 28, 1940 to Clarence and Lucy Kartes in Minneapolis, MN where he grew up and graduated high school, and then joined the Navy. While in the Navy Jim began his career in journalism as a photographer for the Stars and Stripes newspaper. After the Navy Jim moved to Indianapolis and went to work for the local CBS affiliate WISH TV where he would soon become their chief photographer. While there his work caught the eye of Walter Cronkite and he was soon freelancing for CBS News and traveling the world documenting many of the biggest stories of the era, such as President Nixon’s trip to China and the Kent State protest.
While living in Indianapolis Jim met and soon married his wife Nancy. Together they had three children Kim, Jaimie and Kelly.
While raising their family Jim and Nancy founded Kartes Video Communicating in Indianapolis where he helped launch the careers of numerous local film and video professionals.
In the mid 80’s Jim and Nancy moved to Maui where they owned and operated the Maui Visitor Channel for twenty five years. Jim was a true innovator in the television and video world and was always looking for new and exciting ways to apply his skills and tenacity to the media industry.
Jim was preceded in death by his wife Nancy, daughter Kim and brother, Alan.
He is survived by his son Jaimie Kartes(Tammy), daughter Kelly Kartes, grandchildren Nick, Jessica, Zack, Josh, James and Tauley, as well as his sisters Gail Dodson and Mary Cogger.
The family has decided to have a small private memorial service.
Bonnie and Mike Stevens says
We are very sad to read of Jim’s passing. We shared many happy times with Jim and Nancy and the whole family. Our deepest sympathy to Kelly and Jamie. Please know that your parents will always live on in our memories
Jim Borgioli says
We are very saddened by the news of Jim’s passing. He will always be remembered fondly. He’s with his beloved Nancy now.
Jim and Pam Borgioli
David Stephany says
Hello Jamie,
Our thoughts go out to you and your family as news of your fathers passing has just reached us.
We’ve always considered your parents some of the most genuine people we’ve had the pleasure to meet. Jim and Nancy signed as whiteness our wedding certificate which hangs in our bedroom.
Again all our best thoughts,
David & Kathy Stephany
Kea lani says
We loved growing watching you and Nancy on the Maui Vistor Channel. Childhood memories never forgotten. You were the original Guy Fieri for Maui. Rest easy