Obituary

Obituary for James D. Flajnik

James D. Flajnik, AIA
January 26, 1950 – February 12, 2025

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Jim, 75, a beloved husband, father, architect, musician, and cherished friend. After a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Jim passed away peacefully and surrounded by his loved ones on February 12, 2025, at his home in Arlington, Massachusetts.

Jim was born on January 26, 1950, in San Antonio, Texas, and grew up in Houston, Texas, with chickens and a garden. He built a strong work ethic and acquired traits that shaped his character for the rest of his life. Jim found tremendous joy in his music, (in)famously playing the keyboard in his high school band. His love for music was present throughout his entire life.

Jim loved football. After playing in high school, he leaned towards accepting a full scholarship to play linebacker at the U.S. Air Force Academy. That was until he learned there were no girls at the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1968.

Jim stayed in Texas and attended the University of Texas at Austin. Not only did he earn a Bachelor of Architecture degree, but he was also an art teacher on campus. Jim embarked on a distinguished career that spanned 49 years. He was a partner at Parkey and Partners in Dallas and Arrowstreet Inc. in Boston.

Jim spent 38 years at Arrowstreet, where he met the love of his life, Kathie. Their love withstood all, including decades of a daily commute to and from work. Jim contributed to numerous architectural projects that have left a lasting mark on communities across the States and internationally. Jim was known for his technical precision and love of detail. He exclusively used pencil and trace to create his intricate drawings, loving the simplicity and creativity it brought. He was truly a master of his craft, and his work reflected his deep respect for the art and science of architecture. Jim worked hard, played hard, and left a lasting memory with those he mentored.

Jim was a man of many passions and happiest while enjoying Aruba's warm sun and cool breeze. Here, Jim donned his favorite island shirts while soaking in breathtaking sunsets. Jim appreciated life’s simple pleasures and a Bushwacker on the beach. Or two.

Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. His loving wife, Kathie Chainey-Flajnik, survives him; his four children, John, his wife Celeste, David, Erin, and Austin; brother Larry; sisters Dianne and Linda; and his two grandchildren, Lucia and Marcelo, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. His family was his anchor, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Private celebrations of Jim's extraordinary life will be held in MA, TX, and Aruba. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Sanborn Foundation PO Box #417, Arlington, MA 02476, or the American Cancer Society for Pancreatic Cancer in his memory.

Jim will be remembered as a man of immense talent, boundless love, and an eye for life’s finest moments. Whether designing buildings, playing music, vacationing, spending time with his family, or marveling at a sunset, he approached life with passion and heart.

Rest easy, Jim. You will forever be missed and eternally celebrated.

“My Point Is…”