We are sorry to share the news of the passing of our 1997 AIA NJ President, 1996-98 Regional Director and 1990 President of AIA Central New Jersey, James A. Gatsch, FAIA. 

Jim was a very devoted member of AIA, rising to AIA National Vice President and Treasurer. A portion of Jim’s AIA experience can be found HERE. 

Reflections on James Gatsch, FAIA, from Michael J. Mills, FAIA

 

Jim Gatsch and I were friends, Partners, and colleagues for most of our professional careers.  We worked closely on the renovations to the New Jersey State House and State House Annex from the mid-1980’s until the mid-1990’s.  We became Partners at Short and Ford together in 1987.

 

Jim became the Managing Partner of Short and Ford and its successor firms until he left the practice to work at AIA headquarters in Washington, DC, in about 2005.   Jim was all about service to his clients and to the profession.  He did major projects at learning institutions in his hometown of Lawrenceville, New Jersey:  the Chapin School and the Lawrenceville School.  He was committed to AIA New Jersey and held almost every officer position in the organization.  This led to his being elected as a Regional Director for New Jersey and then his ascendancy to become an officer of AIA National.  He ran for President of AIA but was unfortunately not elected.  He would have made a fine President.   He continued his service to the profession by accepting a staff architect position for AIA in Washington after the election.

 

I learned so much about running a design practice from Jim.  After he left the firm, I would occasionally call him for advice, visit with him at AIA events, or take him out to lunch for his birthday.  While most would say he was intense and serious, he had a great sense of humor and was a pleasure to work with personally.  He was very funny and had an infectious laugh.  In his prime, he was an accomplished skier and golfer, skills he left with his son Chris.  While he and his wife Mary both had busy professional careers, they enjoyed a loving and committed marriage and family life.

 

When Jim upgraded his set of golf clubs, he bequeathed a prior set to me.  He thought that having a good set of clubs might improve my game.  While I still have my doubts, I hope to prove that theory in the coming years.  In the meantime, I will cherish that set of clubs and will think of Jim every time I play with them!

 

Jim will be missed by all of us.

 

Michael J. Mills, FAIA

Partner

Mills + Schnoering Architects, LLC

An inspirational mentor to many, we share some remarks from more of Jim’s colleagues:

“Jim was a true gentleman, a respected leader, and an accomplished architect. He was a role model to many, myself included. He will be sorely missed. My heartfelt condolences to his family and closest friends. God speed, Jim. Until we meet again.” AIA New Jersey Past President and AIA Regional Director/ Strategic Council Member Bruce Turner, AIA

“I recall fondly Jim’s encouragement, support and guidance through the 1990’s, in my early years as an AIA member and leader. He was ever present and always knew the best advice or contact person to assist with my committee and task force activities. He was my friend and mentor. He was smart and funny. When he moved up to National leadership, he continued to remain engaged on a state and section level. I definitely attribute many of the strong AIA NJ leaders of the last 25 years a result of Jim’s mentorship.” AIA New Jersey Past President Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA 

“Jim was a strong voice of advocacy for AIA-NJ, and guided us through some tough times the State was having in a transition from a struggling independent office to the successful one of support we have now. We celebrate your life, Jim.” AIA New Jersey Past President Albert Zaccone, FAIA 

“Jim was a leader and gave so much of himself to better our profession.” AIA New Jersey Past Preisdent Ed Rothe, FAIA

“I must say Jim set the bar high for leadership in AIA NJ and at AIA National. May God rest his soul.” AIA New Jersey Past President and Regional Director Robert Cozzarelli, FAIA

“His leadership and dedication to AIANJ and the Institute were inspiring to many.” AIA NJ Past President and Regional Director David DelVecchio, AIA

“Very sad news indeed. I served on Jim’s Board at AIA-NJ. He was a wonderful guy.” AIA Architects League of Northern New Jersey Past President Walter Levy, AIA

“A friend and mentor who will be missed.” Robert Barranger, AIA, Past AIA NJ Public Awareness Chairman

“I worked for Jim at Ford Farewell Mills & Gatsch and Farewell Mills & Gatsch and had the honor of preparing his AIA Fellowship nomination for him. I am saddened to learn of his passing.” Pam McStay, Architecture Marketing Professional