Robert Holmstrom was always known for his positive outlook and generous heart.
The Magnolia resident, couples counselor, house painter, beloved husband and father lost a 15-month bout with lung cancer June 9. He was 65.
Holmstrom was born Nov. 17, 1945 in Seattle. He was known as an active member of the community, an avid runner, golfer and past Elvis impersonator.
In a News profile published last August, he and his wife, Frances, discussed their love of life and how they were dealing with the unexpected news that someone as healthy as Holmstrom had lung cancer.
While the couple held hands on the couch in their living room, smiled at one another and reminisced about their 15 years together, a stranger would have trouble finding proof that Bob was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer this March, stated the article.
“We’re soulmates, playmates and heartmates,” said Frances, whose vibrant paintings hang around the cozy apartment. One is of the pair running, an activity they have always enjoyed doing together. Beside it is an interpretation of Holmstrom back during his Elvis impersonation days.
The news of Holmstrom’s cancer diagnosis came four days after Frances’ 70th birthday. For the past few years, Bob has run 100 miles a month, and has always been quite healthy–which made the diagnosis all the more surprising.
Bob was known around Magnolia as “the community guy” for how involved he has been since he moved into his first apartment there with Frances in 1996. He spent four years on the Magnolia Chamber of Commerce and six years on the board of trustees for the Magnolia Community Club. He was on the Magnolia Bridge replacement committee and had volunteered at the American Cancer Society, where he co-chaired the Rally For Life in Magnolia and also got the Seattle Firefighters involved in the annual fundraiser. Holmstrom has also been a member of the Seattle Neighborhood Matching Funds Committee.
That support came full circle as friends and family were a major source of strength to the couple. Neighbors and friends sent flowers and cards, brought food and words of comfort.
“They are so loved and respected by everyone that knows them,” long time friend Laurel White was quoted as saying in the article. “They give and share so much. They are such sources of inspiration and guidance.”
He is survived by his beloved wife, Frances; sons Rob, Jon, Ryan and stepdaughter Diana Taylor; four grandchildren, and extended family, friends and cats.
Funeral services for Holmstrom were held on Jun 13 at the Church of the Ascension in Magnolia. Donation may be made in Holmstrom’s memory to the Church of Ascension, the American Cancer Society, or the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
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