Connie (Kneip) Buckholtz passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, in Lacey, WA surrounded by family. Born on March 13, 1948, in Everett, WA, Connie’s life was filled with love, dedication, humor, and joy. Her journey took her from Tacoma, where she spent the early years of her life, to Aberdeen, Bellevue, and Lacey, WA. She spent winters in Surprise, AZ, soaking up the sun, making friends, and golfing.

Her educational pursuit began at Aquinas Academy in Tacoma, where she developed her love of learning and made lifelong friendships. She graduated with the class of 1966. She furthered her studies at Marylhurst College in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Connie's professional life was marked by her role as a sales representative at Holland America Cruise Line from 1996 to 2007, a position she held with pride and where she was fondly remembered by colleagues and clients alike.

Connie married her loving and devoted husband, Paul Buckholtz, on December 27, 1969. Together, they built a life filled with shared joys and mutual admiration. She is survived by Paul, her son, David (Shelley) Buckholtz, of Seattle, her daughter, Megan (Chris) Danish of Portland, Oregon, her sister-in-law, Shelley Kneip of Lacey, and five grandchildren, Bradyn, Mira, Lucy, Finn, and Julia, all of whom were the light of her life. Connie took great joy in watching her grandchildren play sports, she was their greatest fan. Connie was athletic and a fierce competitor. She played softball, volleyball, golf, soccer and could challenge anyone in cornhole. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, and creating special gatherings for her family.

Predeceased by her parents, Michael and Louise Kneip, and her beloved brother, Patrick Kneip, Connie found strength in her faith as a cherished member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church community.

A formal ceremony to honor her memory will be held at the Tahoma National Cemetery. Connie’s legacy is one of warmth, resilience, and a life devoted to the service and happiness of those she loved. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, condolences and memories may be shared with the family to celebrate Connie’s life.

Memorial Keepers (2)

Connie Buckholtz