Robert Fineman Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

LOCATION

Seattle, Washington

Robert M. Fineman, M.D., Ph.D.
1945-2020

If you ever needed a hand, "Dr. Bob" was your man. Even in middle of the night or during a fishing trip, he was always there to help you.

Robert Fineman, beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, July 13th. His big heart and dogged tenacity will be greatly missed.

Born the middle of three rambunctious boys on May 15, 1945, to Edward and Frances (Perez) Fineman, "Bobby" was determined to make something of himself. Germantown High School class of 1963. B.S. in Chemistry from Temple University (go Owls!) 1966. M.D. and Ph.D. from SUNY Downstate University in 1972. Board certified in three areas including medical examination, pediatrics and medical genetics (with an exhausting 26-page CV!).

Bob married his beloved sweetheart, Bonnie, in 1968. They enjoyed many wonderful globe-spanning adventures together for 52 years.

He delighted in attending college sporting events. If you ever heard an ear-splitting whistle at a University of Utah (go Utes!) basketball or University of Washington (go Huskies!) football game, you can bet it was Bob. After he retired, you could often join him out in his front yard for a glass of scotch and a (not so) fine cigar.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his children Elyse Fineman (Adam Zoll), Daniel Fineman (Jennifer Stebner), and Amy (Michael) Eisenstein; and grandchildren Rachel, Ilana, Peretz, Jayden, Emunah and Meir.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Joseph (Sandy Levensaler) and Yale (Carol) Fineman as well as his best friend, Michael T. Walton, who is surely enjoying a glass of scotch with him as they sit on a porch in rocking chairs somewhere now.

Funeral services and interment are private.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Edward and Frances Fineman Memorial Scholarship Fund that is awarded each year to an undergraduate chemistry student who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and financial need.

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Posting Guidelines|FAQ

I met Dr. Bob in Seattle, during a federal internship at King County HRSA, through Peggy West, also a wonderful friend of mine in 1999. I am at a loss for words, because I simply want Dr.Bob to live forever. When I was at the bottom of the pit, I called Dr. Bob and also emailed him. He was always optimistic and real at the same time. Bonnie, you and Dr. Bob, and your family are wonderful human beings. Dr. Bob told me one day, that each person has at least 500 angels protecting him/her. I know...

Diana Kurniawan

January 14, 2021 | CO | Student

I was an instructor in the Health and Human Services Division at North Seattle College when Bob was Dean. He was wonderfully supportive, a straight arrow, a gifted leader and a kind and generous man. May the many happy memories sustain his family in the years ahead

Tim Guirl

January 09, 2021 | Shoreline, WA | Coworker

I am so sad to learn of Bob’s passing. Bob was a good colleague and friend. I know he was so proud of his family and was a great support to many. Condolences and wishes for many fond memories for all the family. Bonnie I hope you are staying well during these challenging times.

Peggy West

November 29, 2020

My sincerest condolences to your family. Many fond memories of Bob working together at Handicapped Children's Service Clinics. I loved talking to him on many topics including his challenges working at the University of Utah and more recently reading his book, "A license to Heal, A license to Steal. I admired his kindness, intelligence, and integrity. He was someone willing to stand up for what he believed it. I was trying to find him just today to see if he might be willing to...

Judy Pinborough

September 18, 2020 | Salt Lake City, UT | Coworker

We extend our sincere condolences to Bonnie and family - we were absolutely shocked to learn about Bob passing. I have known Bob since the sixth grade and we shared great times throughout the following school years and then with our spouses some 50 years later celebrating class reunions. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Judy and Murray

Judy Oxenburg Cohen

September 15, 2020 | Huntingdon Valley, PA | Friend

wonderful friend

shelly uman

August 22, 2020 | Friend

To the Fineman family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I am sorry for the lateness of this note, but just learned of his passing. I wanted to thank him for his kind words to me. He was always so grateful for any advice or care that I was able to extend. He was truly a gentleman in every way, ever so appreciative of the care he received at the SCI. I always loved the way he and Bonnie approached his visits with teamwork. From the outside looking in, it was a perfect match. I can only...

Alice Albright

August 20, 2020 | Seattle, WA | Friend

Dear Bonnie, our best to you and the family. I was so shocked and sad to hear about Bob’s death. I had an all too short time with him and your family here in Utah. I remember him well professionally and personally. I was given updates of his adventures in the northwest.
Sounds like he was a dynamo up there accomplished a lot.
I will look forward to enjoying scotch w him and Michael W. Wherever! ED BRONSKY

Ed Bronsky

August 07, 2020 | Salt Lake City, UT | Friend

I was very saddened to hear of the news of my former colleague.
We wouldn't be here in Utah now if it was not for Bob.
John

John Carey

July 19, 2020 | Salt Lake City, UT | Coworker

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