Scenario that has been happening infrequently, but becoming more
frequent, is this...

I unlock the car, insert the key in the ignition....all is well

Turn the key and before the starter engages, all power is lost.  All
lights and sounds cease.  The ignition key cannot be moved in any
direction or removed. ( I really don't understand this i I thought the
switch was strictly a mechanical movement)   Nothing visible on
instrument cluster.

Open the hood and loosen the positive battery terminal.  Relays can be
heard actuatuating when a cable to battery connection is regained.
Generally, get back in the car and it starts as it normally does.  The
clock has defaulted to "1:00"

One morning last week, this cycle repeated 4 times before I got to a
normal ignition!

I'm surprised that I get a complete disconnect of all battery power.
An inability to start due to a started or ignition problem would not
take down all power distribution.  Battery terminals are clean!

Looking for clues.  I have talked to the service manager at the local
Pontiac dealer and a friend who is a service manager at a Chevy
dealer.  Neither has ever run across this problem.  Any help is
appreciated.

Wib