James R. McGranahan's Obituary
JAMES R. MCGRANAHAN
April 20, 1935 -" December 22, 2008
Beloved Husband, Father, Brother, Grandpa
Our Rock
Born in Santa Cruz, California, who knew that the boy with the curly hair was destined for greatness in life and love. His achievements are many and respected by all who knew him. As a prominent architect he helped change the shape of the greater Tacoma area and lent his expertise to those who sought his advice. He won many awards and was recognized by his profession as a Fellow of The American Institute of Architects. Jim gave back to the community in multiple ways, sometimes in very public ways, and other times with quiet dignity.
Jim's great love was his family: his wife Merri Ellen, his children Kevin, Kathi and Kendra, his step-children, Steve (Nikki) and Laura (Pat). He was known to his grandchildren as Grandpa or -Å"Jimmy Guy- by Tyson, Brandon, Tyler, Aly, Max, Sarah and Laney. His sisters, Kay and Patty, will grieve his loss tremendously as will everyone who knew him. Preceding him in death are Marcia, his first wife, the mother of his children, and Kevin, his only son.
He lived life to the fullest with many activities: river rafting, skiing, hiking, and traveling to far ends of the earth. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
A celebration of Jim's life will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, January 3, 2009, at the Sharon McGavick Student and Conference Center, Clover Park Technical College, Bldg 23, 4500 Steilacoom Blvd. S.W., Lakewood,WA.
Donations may be made to the Lakewood Community Foundation, Clover Park Technical College Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home. 584-0252. Please sign online guestbook at www.mountainviewtacoma.com.
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