James Andrew Fontaine, 67, of Plano, Texas, passed away on March 30, 2025. He was born on January 20, 1958, in Marshfield, Wisconsin, to Donald and Carol (Ducharme) Fontaine. James grew up in Greenwood, Wisconsin, where he graduated from high school and laid the foundation for a life driven by curiosity, intellect, and a deep love for those around him.
James earned a scholarship to attend Marquette University, where he pursued his passion for engineering. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, which set the stage for a remarkable career in the technology sector. It was at Marquette that he met Susan Larkin. They married in 1980 and together shared many years and were blessed with two wonderful children, Claire and Jack.
Jim began his professional journey in the 1980s as an engineer at Texas Instruments, in a position that would bring him and his family to Plano, Texas. Here he began to carve a long, distinguished career as a technology executive and entrepreneur, driven by an innovative spirit and desire to create something meaningful. Jim left TI and worked on graphics controllers at Mostek, and then co-founded VITec, an advanced imaging computer. Next, he started up Pixel Semiconductor, which was purchased by Cirrus Logic. He spent time in Silicon Valley, working as an executive for Cirrus Logic in Fremont, California, helping to advance the company’s new IC chips for consumer entertainment products. For the most part, though, Jim lived and worked in Plano, where his professional focus was on co-founding, managing, advising, or supporting several pioneering start-up companies. All of them, including VITec, Microtune, and Pixel Semiconductor, applied transformative technology to consumer or business electronics. After retirement, Jim participated at NTAN, an angel investment firm that supports and advises startup companies in North Texas. Jim was highly regarded by peers, collaborators, and employees for his integrity, creative vision, and respect-based leadership.
In addition to his professional achievements, James had many interests that shaped his character. He was an avid filmmaker, an entrepreneur at heart, and a dedicated enthusiast of family history and storytelling. He found peace and growth in meditation and spiritual exploration. Above all, he valued sincerity, integrity, and a deep engagement with life’s questions, relationships, and moments.
As a father, James was a steady and loving presence in the lives of Claire and Jack. He set an example of unwavering affection and unconditional love, always encouraging them to explore, learn, and grow. He never sought the spotlight for himself, but his warmth, humor, and thoughtfulness made those around him feel seen and appreciated. James was a man of constant self-reflection, always looking within to learn and evolve. James’ legacy is one of quiet strength, deep curiosity, and an enduring commitment to the people he loved. His ability to bring laughter to those around him, his dedication to personal growth, and his profound love for his family will be remembered by all who knew him.
He is survived by his daughter, Claire Fontaine of Seattle, Washington; son, Jack Fontaine of Seattle, Washington; mother, Carol Fontaine of San Juan, Texas; brother, Leslie Fontaine and spouse, Marta of St. Charles, Missouri; sister, Darlene Wellner and spouse, Mike of Medford, Wisconsin; brother, Gerard Fontaine and spouse, Shawn of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; brother, Mike Fontaine and spouse, Cheryl of Fitchburg, Wisconsin; sister, Mary Olson and spouse, Ronald of Waukesha, Wisconsin; brother, Jeff Fontaine of Flower Mound, Texas; brother, Tim Fontaine and spouse, Diane of Weslaco, Texas; sister, Paulette Lange and spouse, Bruce of Ponder, Texas; and a host of other loving family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Fontaine.
A memorial will be held from 6:00-9:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at A Tasteful Place Garden at the Dallas, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.