James Todd “Todd” Achelpohl, 64, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on December 29 surrounded by family and friends. He was born on February 2, 1960, in Topeka, Kansas, to Ray and Juanita “June” (Barnes) Achelpohl. Todd received degrees in architecture from the University of Kansas and Columbia University. At KU, he was a Ewart Scholar at University College London.
Todd began his career at Hollis + Miller Architects while he was attending Shawnee Mission South high school. Following his studies, Todd practiced architecture in New York City in the office of Edward Larrabee Barnes where he worked on the Thurgood Marshall Federal Judiciary Building in Washington, DC. In Kansas City, he worked with Abend/Singleton Associates on the Charles E. Whittaker U.S. Courthouse and then at HNTB on projects including the Kay Barnes Grand Ballroom at the Convention Center and the Kansas City Public Library’s Central Library. He spent 15 years practicing with HNTB, where he served as Director of Design, Convention Center Practice Leader, and Eastern District Business Development Director.
Todd was known for his design leadership and love of teaching and mentorship. In 2014, he joined the faculty at the KU School of Architecture & Design where he taught Design Studio. He was most proud of his work teaching design to students. He was a loving husband and father and lived for all things 431 W. 67th Terrace including cooking, entertaining, and gardening. Todd believed in giving in all possible ways, but especially through the touch of creativity in everyday life.
Todd leaves his beloved wife, Kathy (Webb) Achelpohl, daughter Emily Webb Achelpohl, brother Scott Barnes Achelpohl, and 12 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Steven Edward Achelpohl and sister Nancy Jan Achelpohl.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, February 15, at the South Lobby of the Kansas City Convention Center’s Kay Barnes Grand Ballroom, 10 am – Noon, service at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Todd and Kathy Achelpohl Fund for International Scholarship at the KU School of Architecture & Design, please see link below.
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