James Louis Mondt

Jim was born in Seattle, Washington, on January 13, 1947, to Albert and Gerry Mondt, and was the twin brother of Janet. He graduated from Issaquah High School in 1965. In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he was trained as an air traffic controller during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1970 and soon after began what became a lifelong career with the Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center in Auburn. He started on July 3, 1968 and retired on July 3, 2002 — exactly 34 years later.

In retirement, Jim spent his days doing the things he loved most. Sports were a constant thread in his life — from cheering on the Seahawks, Huskies, Mariners, and Thunderbirds, to traveling from wrestling gyms to football fields, tracks, sand pits, and soccer fields to support his grandkids. He also worked part-time at the ShoWare Center in Kent, where he enjoyed being around people and making new friends. At home, he took great satisfaction in tending his raspberry plants, puttering in the garage, and planning roadtrips.

One of Jim’s most steadfast commitments was to donating blood. He donated blood for many decades, ultimately giving 240 pints — a quiet act of service that helped countless lives.

Jim is survived by his sister, Janet Kahler, his former wife and current friend, Mary Mondt; his son Mike Mondt and daughter-in-law Stacy; his daughter Amanda Papaefstathiou and son-in-law Stathis; and his beloved grandchildren Alex Mondt, Samantha Papaefstathiou, and Zoe Papaefstathiou, along with three bonus grandchildren, Lucy, Jack and Josie Gleason. His grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life, and he was their biggest fan in every sense.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Bloodworks Northwest, or that a pint of blood be donated in Jim’s honor. Please visit https://bloodworksnw.org for more information.