Robert "Bob" Allen Schmelzle

Bob was born in Quincy, Illinois on December 24, 1957 to Robert and Sharon (McCaughey) Schmelzle. While visiting Seattle in 1990, Bob met Justine Ozaki through mutual friends. They were married two months later on January 17, 1991.

Bob’s career in home building began with finish carpentry. Then he became a general contractor and he ran his own construction company for many years before retiring. He enjoyed his work and was able to offer his expertise to help friends and family with many repairs and renovations over the years.

An avid sportsman, Bob loved fishing and cycling. He dreamed of getting his pilot’s license and owning his own airplane, and enjoyed accomplishing those dreams.

Bob’s exacting standards served him well in his culinary pursuits. He was known for his delicious sourdough pizzas, especially the ‘ham & egg’ pizza. He perfected every detail, from creating his own crusts to slicing his own meats and growing his own tomatoes to create the perfect sauce. Friends and family also fondly remember his home-brewed beers, strong espressos and freshly baked sourdough loaves.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Robert Schmelzle; mother, Sharon Holthaus; and step-father, Greg Holthaus.

He is survived and missed by his beloved wife of 34 years, Justine Ozaki; son, Andy (Rachel) Schmelzle and grandson Sam Schmelzle; siblings Kathy (Raymond) Rossmiller, Mark (Robin) Schmelzle, Susan (Bill) Sanders, Lisa (Dane) Barnes, Lynn (Ryan) Ehmen and Gail (Lou) DeGreeff; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be no services at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center at 18560 1st Ave NE, Bldg G, Shoreline, WA 98155. They can be reached at (206) 365-1536.