James Albert Kreutner

Jim (James) Albert Kreutner, loving husband of Monetta, passed away on Wednesday, November 17th, 2021 in Escondido, CA, at the age of 75.

He was born December 9th, 1945, in New York to Albert Fred Kenneth Kreutner and Elva Ellen (Bullock) Kreutner. He was raised in the San Fernando Valley (Reseda) and graduated from Reseda High School in 1963. Subsequently, he enlisted in the Navy (Naval Air) as a reservist and went to basic training in 1964. He attended college during his enlisted time and graduated from California State University, Northridge, where he majored in accounting. He obtained his C.P.A. two years later.

In 1963, he met Betty Kreutner, who was attending Reseda High School.  Their love grew and they were married on September 15, 1968. They had their first child, Amy Louise, on October 4, 1974, and their second, Melissa Sue, on January 29, 1978. He and Betty were married and deeply in love until her death in 2013.

Jim was a CPA by trade and worked as a Controller or similar financial role for several companies including Universal Studios and Arthur Anderson. He later changed careers and became a software salesman where he worked for various companies and prided himself on taking care of his clients.  In 1997, he moved to Washington State.

In 2014, Jim met the second love of his life, Monetta Kreutner, in Escondido, CA while caring for Betty’s parents, after her death. They were engaged on New Year’s Eve 2014, and were married on October 11, 2021, surrounded by their friends and family.

Dad was deeply devoted to his wife and family and spent most of his free time with them. He enjoyed fishing, reading, working on cars and water sports. He was a BMW CCA driving instructor and loved spending time on the track. He renovated several houses with his trademark perfectionism and eye for design. But his favorite activity was traveling in and outside the US, particularly to the Hawaiian Islands, Australia and New Zealand. He liked to say he hit 18 and never grew older which captured his spirit in his love for life and passion – he was a man who did not do well holding still.

Survivors include his wife, Monetta Kreutner of Escondido, CA; daughters, Amy L. Kreutner of Hemet, CA, and Melissa S. Kreutner (wife of Leonardo Salinas) of Austin, TX; brothers, Ronald Kreutner and Thomas Kreutner and their families; and only grandson, James Edison Heyman. He is also survived by Monetta’s children and their families and he acted as a devoted grandfather to his step-grandchildren as well.

Although he is no longer living, his devotion to family, his passion for life, and his spirit will remain with us forever.

Bonham Bros & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

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