James Francis Christnacht

James(Jim) Francis Christnacht died on December 6th, 2024 at the age of 69. 

He was born in Spokane, Washington on June, 30th 1955 to George and Joan Christnacht. He was raised in Tacoma, Washington as the eldest of 4 siblings: Ann-Marie, Charles, and Claire. He attended Bellarmine Preparatory High School in Tacoma WA and graduated in 1973. After high school he attended the University of Washington in Seattle where earned his Bachelor’s Degree at the Business school in 1977. He spent some time working real estate before deciding to pursue law, taking after his father George Christnacht. He attended the Law School at the University of Puget Sound, graduated, and was accepted into the Bar Association in 1984. He practiced before the Washington State Courts, Federal District Court, and the Puyallup Tribal Court. His practice included personal injury, probate, guardianship, wills and estate planning, bankruptcy, misdemeanor criminal defense, domestic relations, real estate, and business law. He also served as a guardian for many of the city's most vulnerable people. He was a member of the Washington State Bar Association, Washington State Trial Lawyers Association, and the Pierce County Bar Association. He was also an integral member of Crime Stoppers in Tacoma for 30 years. 

James met and married his wife Debra in 1988 and they were together for 37 years. Together they raised three children: Elizabeth, Jessica, and Andrew. He was a grandfather to Layla and Cyrus Muthala. In addition to working together to create a successful law practice, James and Debra bought and ran a farm in Graham, WA. James loved spending time with his family, running the farm, being with animals, working on one of the many projects he undertook, being a helping hand, and giving sound advice to anyone who asked.

James was a lifelong Catholic and Lector for 25 years at Saint Patrick’s and St Francis Cabrini Churches. He served as the treasurer to the Tacoma Dominican Sisters. He continually volunteered at church and school related events for his children and family.

James is survived by his wife, all his children and grandchildren, his mother Joan, all of his siblings, nieces, and nephews. James fulfilled his lifelong dream of living on a farm and had never been happier in life. He was a beloved husband and family man, lawyer, farmer, and Good Samaritan. 

As a special tribute to Jim, we invite you to wear your best Hawaiian shirt to the funeral mass and your favorite themed necktie to the rosary. All are welcome to attend regardless of their religious affiliation.