James Cleveland Fochtman

James Cleveland Fochtman passed away the morning of January 4, 2025 at the age of 79. He was born July 3, 1945 to Roy and LaVeta Fochtman in Tacoma Washington. He was soon joined by brothers Ray and Doug. He spent his childhood in Weiser Idaho, Algona and Sumner Washington. James, along with his brothers, were very rambunctious in their youth. He enjoyed hunting and fishing while watching baseball and football were his favorite hobbies. He and his brother Doug would spend spring evenings listening to baseball games on the radio in the room they shared. James attended Auburn High School where he played basketball.

After serving in the Army, James came back to Pierce County. He spent a few years living in Spokane, but again returned to Pierce County. James worked as a plumber but his favorite job was as a clerk for the Pierce County Auditor. He began his career delivering voting machines to polling sites and later moved to the work at the Annex in the auto licensing department. James was gifted with his beloved dog, Lucy Lu, whom he loved, coddled and cared for until she left him at 11 years of age.

After retiring, James moved to Casa Grande Arizona where he lived until 2021. He moved back to Washington to be closer to family, settling in at Stafford Suites in Sumner. Front porch sitting and assembling jigsaw puzzles occupied some of his time as did visiting with family that stopped by. The family would like to extend our appreciation for the care and friendships Stafford Suites provided James.

James leaves his brother Doug (Sharon), his daughter Janet (Ron) Baker, grandsons, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. He is proceeded in death by his parents Roy and LaVeta; his granddaughter, Desirae, and his brother Ray. As per his request, donations will be made to St. Jude Hospital and Metro Animal Services. He will be interned at Sumner Cemetery later this year.