Klontz, James M.

Born and raised in the Seattle area, James Mathias Klontz received his formal architectural training at the University of Washington, graduating in 1943. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Army, and rose to the rank of Corporal during WWII. Prior to WWII, Klontz had worked at Auburn Cabinet Works (1934-43) where he gained valuable experience in the shop’s drafting room. Other experience included a summer with architect George W. Stoddard, and at the firm of Bliss & Massar.

In 1951, Klontz opened his own practice and by 1956 he took on a partner, George E. Wrede. Klontz & Wrede focused primarily on religious facilities including churches, schools and convents. Known work includes an addition to the Bellevue Methodist Church (1956); Our Lady of Fatima Church (1968) in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood; a convent for St. Benedict’s Catholic Church in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood; St. Patrick’s Parish in Seattle (1961); and a large scale facility for St. Monica’s Parish on Mercer Island (1960).

Non-religious works by Klontz & Wrede included a variety of shopping centers, clinics and office buildings. Among their most notable projects is the Alcoa Building (1963); a large PX Market in Bellevue (1961); a Thriftway Shopping Center in Inglewood (1965); and a Nordstrom Store in Bellevue (ca. 1962).

Today, the firm is known as Klontz & Associates. Information is sought on the later life and career of James M. Klontz. Please contact Docomomo WEWA if you have additional information.