Xavier James McAdams Morigeau, 32

Xavier Dorian James McAdams Morigeau, known affectionately as "X" or "X-man," passed away on Sept. 8, 2024, in Kalispell, at the age of 32.

Born on Dec. 10, 1991, in Missoula, Xavier was a vibrant individual whose presence was a blessing to those around him. Xavier knew how to make your day better and never missed an opportunity to remind his friends and family that he loved them. And with his outgoing personality, he made friends just about everywhere he went. He was also a proud member of The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Before Xavier graduated from Ronan High School, he attended Victor High School and played both football and basketball. His accolades as a junior included Western C first team all-conference running back and honorable mention middle linebacker.

Xavier transferred back to Ronan midway through his junior year, and as a senior at Ronan High School, Xavier hit the gridiron as one of the most bruising running backs the state has seen. As a full back, he averaged over 150 yards rushing per game with 12 touchdowns and 1,380 yards on the season.

When Ronan set a team total national record of 85 carries in a 70-36 rout of conference foe Libby, Xavier ended the night with 42 carries, 6 touchdowns, and 334 yards. Ronan went on to make the playoffs to break a long slump of playoff appearances. Xavier would earn all-state full back honors and first team all-conference full back and offensive most valuable player honors.

Xavier’s raw talent and athleticism led him to spending pretty much every Montana summer on the baseball diamond. Although Xavier had the ability to play just about any position, he was a standout hitter and pitcher.

He made lifelong friends playing little league and legion baseball for the Mission Valley Mariners. His days on the road with friends and family would shape many of his lifelong memories. His love and raw talent for baseball would eventually land him a baseball scholarship.

After high school Xavier furthered his education and played baseball at Yakima Valley College. After attending college in Washington, Xavier made his way home and attended Salish Kootenai College where he played basketball for the SKC Bison.

He was an avid sports enthusiast, with a passion for swimming, hiking, football, basketball, softball and baseball, which allowed him to enjoy the great outdoors and team camaraderie. And although he was known as a scrappy and tough guy on the field and court, Xavier exuded compassion and kindness to those around him, and is remembered for often sticking up for those who experienced bullying.

He is survived by his beloved child, LillyMarie Ann; father Vaughn James; his grandparents, Victor Anthony Morigeau and Constance Ann Morigeau; his brother, Quentin Denton; his uncles and adopted brothers, Shane Antoine Morigeau and Shawn Garrin McAdams; his aunts and adopted sisters, Cristen Two Teeth and Corinna Rae Morigeau; his uncles, Dan James and Louie James; aunts Anna James and Tammy Koehler; his pup Watson; and many other loving uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

Flowers and memorial contributions are both welcome and donations can be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at nami.org. Xavier's bright and beautiful smile, his legacy of kindness, and his love for life will be remembered by all who knew him.