Vilnis A. Jecs was born in Daugavpils, Latvia June 11, 1937.He passed away at his home on Vashon Island, Washington on March 31, 2010 at the age of 72.His story is one of hardship, hard work and joy.

Vilnis and his family came to the United States after WWII to a plantation in Johnestown, Mississippi.In 1951 the family had an opportunity to move to Tacoma, Washington where Vilnis graduated from Stadium High School class of 1956.After serving four years in the US Navy, from 1958-1962, during which time he received his citizenship, Vilnis studied at Edison Technical School in Communications Electronics.His work history included: Boeing from 1962 -1964, Washington Iron Works in Seattle as a boilermaker until they closed in the 1980's, and King County as Chief HVAC Engineer from 1985 until he retired in the year 2000.Vilnis married Dianne Eisenreich in 1965. Prior to moving to Vashon Island in 1998 they lived 20 years in Federal Way, Washington. Vilnis was an avid golfer and enjoyed nurturing and developing his property into what it is today.The wildlife on the island brought much joy to Vilnis and Dianne, so much so he took on the challenge of befriending the deer.

Vilnis was a member of the Vashon Island Golf and Country Club.

He is survived by his wife Dianne, mother Zelma Zitars, brothers Imants (Lucky) Jecs (Dawn) and Sigurds Zitars, Nephew Kelly Jecs and aunt Erna Likuma.

Preceded in death by his father Aleksandris, step father Julijs Zitars, brother Gunars Jecs and sister Dace Zitars.

A memorial service will be held Friday April 9, 2010 1 pm at the Island Funeral Service Chapel. Please visit our online guest book at www.islandfuneral.com.