James Takayuki Nanto

James T. Nanto, 83, and his wife Debbie died in a tragic house fire on Aug. 15, 2022.

Jim was born in Hardin, Montana on March 6, 1939, the second son of Tom Kiyoshi and Frances Nobuko Nanto. He enjoyed life in rural Montana until the eighth grade, when he moved to Moses Lake, Washington, and graduated from Moses Lake High School. While in Moses Lake, Jim joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he served in many positions, including bishop, high councilor and missionary in Brazil. He graduated from DeVry Technical Institute in Chicago and, after serving in the Air National Guard, worked there as a civilian until he retired.

Jim’s home always was filled with music. He played the violin, taught orchestra, led choirs, gave private lessons and sang duets with Debbie. He left a legacy of music that continues through his descendants.

Jim is preceded in death by his son Shawn Nanto. Jim is survived by daughters Tamara Walling (Mark) and Lisabeth Eddy (Adam); son Aaron Nanto (Amy); daughter-in-law Jennifer Nanto; brothers Robert (Suzanne), Dick (Masako), Howard (Sherrie), Edward and Harvey (Roxanne); grandchildren Riece (Melissa), Quinn, Nova, Isaac, TyeLeah and Judah; and great-grandchildren Declan, Kaiya and Akira.

A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 27, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1849 Nelson Road NE, Moses Lake, Washington.

Please express your thoughts and memories at www.kayserschapel.com. Arrangements are under the care of Kayser’s Chapel of Memories of Moses Lake, Washington.