James R. Kreutz

Major James (Jim) Roden Kreutz (ret) passed away Sunday April 26, 2009 after a courageous battle against cancer. Jim was born February 28, 1940 in Ontario, Oregon and attended schools in Pendleton, Oregon where he was an outstanding athlete. He graduated from Pendleton High School in 1958. After 6 years of Navy service he enlisted in the US Army to attend helicopter flight school. Jim served 2 tours in Vietnam as a combat helicopter pilot receiving a multitude of commendations and medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross (OLC) and the Bronze Star (OLC). Jim retired from military service in 1985 after which he worked as a consultant in the aviation industry and as a commercial building manager. Everyone who knew Jim remembers him for the lasting impact his strength of character and dedication to others had on them, influencing their lives for the better. Jim was a truly blessed to be surrounded and supported in his last days by family and friends plus Dr. Rose and the outstanding staff at the Puyallup Regency and Good Samaritan Hospital. He will be missed but his example lives on. Jim was preceded in death by his 2 loving wives; Rosa Kreutz and Lynn Kreutz, and a son Mario Paz. Survivors include 3 sons; Carlos (Lisa) with grandchildren Sammie and Michael. Steve with granddaughters Victoria and Veronica. And son Danny. Daughter Kari (Rick) with granddaughter Jillian. Sister Edna Murtishaw and brother Dennis Kreutz. Graveside Services will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery on Monday May 4, 2009 at 2:15 PM. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations please be made in Jim’s name to the Honor Flight Network at www.honorflight.org Arrangements by Curnow Funeral Home & Cremation Service. 253-863-2800. Please sign the online guest book at.www.curnowfuneralhome.com