James Frederick Voelker

James Frederick Voelker, beloved husband, father, and community leader, passed away on October 15, 2024, at the age of 73. He was a devoted family man, a highly respected businessman, and a cherished friend and mentor who touched the lives of many. Jim will be deeply missed by his wife of 40 years, Patty Voelker, his children Zak (Myleene), Helen (Adam), and Grace (Amren), as well as his grandchildren CJ, Fred, EJ, James, and Joan. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Adolf Voelker and Helen Dunbar Voelker, and his three sisters, Peggy Coats, Janet Voelker, and Patti Ankofski. Jim will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, strength and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Jim attended Detroit Public Schools K-12, with one year at private high school, Detroit Country Day. He did not have a formal college education. Jim was never without a job, starting from a young age. At just 12, he embarked on what he later described as his most formative business experience—working as a paperboy. This early role was the first in a series of hands-on jobs that shaped his work ethic. He progressed from pizza delivery to driving various types of catering trucks, eventually working as a pop truck driver for Canada Dry. Through his hard work, determination, and keen eye for uncovering unique opportunities, Jim began his telecom career at Sprint as sales manager where he built strong relationships that would shape his future. He later joined some colleagues at Lexitel, a long distance telephone business, in Michigan in the early days of deregulation of that industry. He rose to become VP of Sales and Marketing. From there, he went on to co-found Digital Signal where he deployed a team to build the Florida network on a shoestring budget and kick off the business. This was the initial engagement with fiber optics in the United States. He then sold Digital Signal and had his first exit. Jim went on to move his family to Bellevue, Washington in 1995, where he continued his successful career, first as President of telecom stalwart Nextlink (now XO Communications) and later as CEO of Infospace, an internet and mobile technology firm. Jim’s ability to recognize potential in emerging markets and steer companies toward success was a hallmark of his remarkable business career. Jim developed and mentored many executives at his businesses, who then branched off and operated many other successful businesses in Washington and nationally, further extending his business legacy. A dedicated community leader, Jim was actively involved and supported many causes. His two most impactful contributions were leading the capital campaign for the Bellevue Boys and Girls Club and serving on the Tyee Board Executive Committee for University of Washington Athletics, where he supported young people in the pursuit of their dreams. Jim firmly believed in paying his successes forward by investing in youth, ensuring that the next generation had the opportunities and mentorship needed to thrive.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jim married the love of his life, Patty Beck, in 1984, and together they built a warm and loving home for their three children, who eventually blessed them with five beautiful grandchildren. Jim took immense pride in his family and always believed that family was his highest priority.

Jim had many passions. He was an avid sports fan, cheering fervently for his hometown Detroit Lions, the Seattle Mariners, and University of Washington Huskies. Jim also found joy in coaching his children's sports teams, bringing the same dedication to the court and field as he did in life. His fabulous memory paired well with his inquiring mind and love of reading. He was deeply passionate about business, golf, music, playing his guitar, grilling, "house wine", and the family vacation home in Los Cabos, Mexico. A music enthusiast, Jim was in several bands throughout his years, and kept his love for music alive, even performing, "Brown Eyed Girl" by Van Morrison at both of his daughter’s weddings. Travel was another cherished adventure for Jim. He traveled the world both professionally and personally, immersing himself in the rich diversity of cultures he encountered. Through all of these pursuits, spending quality time with his family was Jim’s ultimate joy, and his love and dedication to them were the heart of his life.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on November 11, 2024, at Sacred Heart Church and Newcastle Golf Club. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Bellevue Boys and Girls Club or UW Athletics Voelker Family Endowed Football Scholarship Fund in his memory.