James M. Klontz

James M. KLONTZ James M. Klontz passed away surrounded by his family on November 16, 2010 at 90 years of age. He was the oldest of 6 sons born to George and Mary Ellen Klontz in Kent, Washington on May 3rd, 1920. He spent much of his early years working part time with his dad and brothers' at Auburn Cabinet Works owned by his father. He graduated from high school in 1937 and then worked full time for two years at the Cabinet Works to earn money to attend college. Jim attended the University of Washington graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1943. He received the American Institute of Architects award for Distinction in Design. He also graduated as an Officer Candidate, Officers Reserve Corps, United States Army. After graduation he immediately shipped out to serve in the Army during WWII as part of the 328th Infantry Regiment, the 26th Infantry Division, commonly referred to as the Yankee Division. The Regiment landed in Utah Beach in September of 1944 and then joining up with General Patton's Third Army. During his war service he was the recipient of the Bronze Star for heroic action and received numerous other battle stars for Northern France, the Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. After VE Day and the surrender of Germany Jim stayed in Linz, Austria and managed the disposition of over 12,000 SS prisoners and displaced persons in over 70 camps. Jim returned to Seattle in 1946 and began his architectural career with Bliss Moore and Associates. He married Angie Gomes on January 15, 1949 and they had five daughters. He started his own firm in 1951 and continued to practice with various associates until January of 2008, a career spanning 62 years. At his retirement he was the second oldest practicing architect in the State of Washington. Throughout his career Jim specialized in Church and School architecture designing many of the Catholic parish churches in Seattle including his own parish church, Our Lady of Fatima, built initially in 1952 and again in 1968. He designed many school and renovation projects for Snohomish and other local school districts. He was a versatile Architect and his projects included educational, commercial, industrial and residential projects. Jim was known for the quality and precision of his documents and was a wonderful teacher and mentor to young Architects. He became licensed in Alaska in the 1980's and expanded his practice to include the fishing industry. In addition to his 62 year career in architecture Jim was a passionate fisherman and traveler. In his earlier years he spent many mornings before work with his fishing buddy seeking salmon in Shilshole Bay and returning home to be at his office at regular time. Jim and Angie also traveled the world visiting countries ranging from Australia to China to Brazil. Jim is survived by his wife of 62 years, Angie Klontz and 3 brothers, Martin, Joseph and Francis. He also is survived by his five daughters; Melinda Jacobson (Dale Osterud), Marsha Klontz (Jim Jordan), Nancy Neidinger (Roger), Karen Medina and Joyce Klontz, and granddaughter, Christine Jacobson. A vigil/rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Fatima on November 22nd and a funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday November 23rd at Our Lady of Fatima and burial will follow at Tahoma National Ceme- tery at 2:15 p.m. on November 23. Contributions may be made to Our Lady of Fatima at 3218 West Barrett St., Seattle Washington 98199 in Jim's memory. Arrangements are being handled by the Klontz Funeral Home in Auburn, Washington.