James M. Kawecki

KAWECKI JAMES MARION KAWECKI "Jim" Born August 22, 1943 in Detroit, MI, died unexpectedly at home from a heart attack on July 2, 2011 in Potomac, MD. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Laura; brother, Roger; sons, Todd and Cass; daughter, Leslie; granddaughters, Aubrielle and Sophia; former wife, Kathleen; daughters-in-law, Danielle and Barbara; and many loving friends. He also leaves his faithful dog, Jamie. Jim was a well-respected environmental scientist and toxicologist, known nationally for his professional and academic excellence and pro-bono work. He was principal of Kawecki Associates since 1995, prior to which he held positions with Columbia Uni- versity, Georgetown University and the EPA. Jim recently provided consulting services for the Habitat for Humanity and for the Parsons NS Stevens Solar Decathlon Team 2011. Jim was born and raised in Detroit, MI, the son of the late Casimer and Anne Kawecki. During the Vietnam War Jim served in the United States Armed Forces as a medic from 1966-1968. Jim moved to Washington, DC in 1969. Jim was an avid hobby artist and musician. In the 60's and early 70's, he studied guitar under the ragtime blues legend Reverend Gary Davis, frequently played with John Jackson, and performed in the DC area and in New Orleans. Jim passed on his musical gifts, teaching his sons to play guitar. Jim loved the outdoors, especially the beach and hiking and biking with his wife Laura. He loved entertaining and sharing his charm, warmth, and fine sense of humor with others. He was the most generous and gracious host, always opening his home to family and friends. Jim will be greatly missed and always remembered for his loving and generous spirit. A memorial service will be held on Sunday July 10, at 2 p.m. at Safe Harbor Presbyterian Church, 931 Love Point Road, Stevensville, MD 21666, with a reception immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of James Kawecki can be made to the Natural Resources Defense Council, visit www.nrdc.org then click "donate", then click "honorary gifts", or call 212-727-4479.