James Frederick Schnaitman
Obituary

James Frederick Schnaitman, a man whose life was defined by the grand adventures he shared and the deep love he held for his family, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, at the age of 81. He drew his last breath in Seattle, Washington, surrounded by his family who loved him dearly.

Born on November 3, 1944, in Marshall, Michigan, Jim was the son of John Frederick and Mary Ann Schnaitman. Growing up in a large, bustling household, he learned early on the value of connection, loyalty, and a good sense of humor. As a young man, Jim answered the call of duty and proudly served his country as an Army veteran, establishing a lifelong foundation of discipline and dedication.

Jim was a true Renaissance man, possessing a rare blend of analytical precision and vibrant creativity. Professionally, he kept the wheels turning as an accountant and working in construction, but his entrepreneurial and artistic spirits took him far beyond the desk. He brought community and magic to life while running a local movie theater. In the kitchen, Jim was an exceptional chef, treating loved ones to incredible meals. His artistic talents extended to the niche worlds of photography, ice carvings and vibrant stained glass creations.

Jim (known by his family as Bumpy) was a man who believed that life was meant to be gathered up and shared. He was famously known among his inner circle for orchestrating "grand tour adventures." Whether it was a precisely planned trip or a spontaneous detour, Jim was happiest in the driver’s seat, guiding his favorite people toward new sights with his favorite jazz music playing.  Seattle Mariner games were a family staple as were enjoying a great meal, or the perfect scoop of ice cream. To Jim, the destination mattered far less than the laughter shared along the way.

He joins in eternal rest his parents, John Frederick and Mary Ann; his sister, Sue Ann; and his brothers, Tom and Jon.

Jim lives on through his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, Diana, who was his partner in all of life's adventures. He leaves a rich legacy in his children, Barry and Janis, and his surviving brothers, Dan, Robert, and Eric. He was the proudest grandfather to Brandon, Bill, Emily, Troy, Paige, Sophia, Chloe, and Barry, and a doting great-grandfather to Blaze, Brinley Jo, Bella Jean, (coming soon Baby Ribeiro) and many many extended family members.

Jim lived fully, loved fiercely, and left the world a little brighter and sweeter for everyone who knew him. He is greatly loved, and he is already dearly missed.

However, we take great comfort in the fact that Bumpy is walking the streets of gold based on his faith he placed in Jesus!

Services

A celebration of life service is tentatively planned for the weekend of Saturday, September 26, 2026, or Sunday, September 27, 2026:

• Location and time TBD

Following the service, Jim will be laid to rest at:

• Woodbine Cemetery

• 2323 9th St SW, Puyallup, WA