James Burton (Jim) Gallinatti's Obituary
Jim Gallinatti died peacefully at his home in Lakewood, WA, in the loving and comforting care of his wife Linda and family. For over 90 years, Jim was a dear friend to many, a respected leader in all his endeavors, a devoted husband to Maria Gallinatti (46 years) and Linda Gallinatti (23 years), and the patriarch of his close-knit family. Born to Mack and Edith Gallinatti in Oakland, California, Jim graduated from Piedmont High School and UC Berkeley, where he was president of Zeta Psi fraternity. He served in the US Army as a Lieutenant in the 11th Airborne at Fort Campbell, KY before moving his family to San Marino, CA in 1957 where he enjoyed a successful career as a Vice President and Branch Manager at Dean Witter Co. in Glendale, CA. In 1975, Jim joined Frank Russell Co. and moved to Tacoma, WA where he was appointed Director of the Institutional Data Division. Jim was an active member of Tacoma Country & Golf Club, serving as president in 1989, and the Cascade Club of Tacoma.
Jim was predeceased by his wife Maria, son Jay, brother Al, and his parents. He is survived by his wife Linda, his children Mimi (Tom) Hackleman, John (Nancy) Gallinatti, and Mark (Debbie) Gallinatti, and his stepchildren Brian, Elizabeth (Andy), and Brad Barksdale. “Papa” took an active and inspiring role in the lives of his grandchildren Drew Hackleman, Emily Bice, Rob Hackleman, Kelly Miller, Jeana Foust, Joe Gallinatti, Domenica Colombié, Abby Comfort, and JB Gallinatti, and was delighted by his growing contingent of great-grandchildren.
Always a gentleman, Jim took his responsibilities and duties seriously, and demanded the same in others, but he always did so with the greatest sense of humor, relying on his well-worn advice to “always leave them laughing.” Jim’s smile and laughter will be truly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A private memorial will be held in celebration of Jim’s life.
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