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Stephen Williams Obituary

Stephen Martin WILLIAMS 8/16/49 ~ 4/13/2011 Seattle native Steve Williams died Wednesday following a valiant struggle with kidney failure and diabetes. Steve's career spanned two industries: home electronics and personal fitness. An original owner of Speakerlab, Steve went on to hold executive posts at Harman, Onkyo, and served as the CEO of Carver Corporation. He also held executive positions at Cybex and TechnoGym. 'Tenacious and gracious,' Steve was a mentor to many in both industries. In his last years, Steve experienced a litany of health problems, which he faced with dignity and honor. He hoped that his calamities might serve to educate others (www.LindaGromkoMDKidneyCare.blogspot.com).

Steve was most proud of his daughter Brita Elizabeth. He is also survived by wife Linda Gromko, MD, stepson Tim Franklin, and sister Carole Jo Williams. As Steve so enjoyed his wife's diverse medical practice, the family asks that memorial contributions be directed to Ingersoll Gender Center or Planned Parenthood. A memorial party will be held at a later date. See Stephen's guestbook at www.Legacy.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Seattle Times on Apr. 17, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Williams

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Steve Martin

April 11, 2021

It is hard to believe Steve has been gone for 10 years.
I was once told that a person is not gone until everyone who knows them are gone as well.
I have the collage of pictures of Steve and friends shown at his service. I think of Steve often and for me he is not gone.

Laurinda Lanza

May 9, 2011

Linda - your friends from Bainbridge Island Athletic Club send our love to you! Take care of your self and your family. With love, Laurinda

May 8, 2011

Brita...I'm glad I saw you on the ferry. Please let me know further about the memorial. Teri Weldy [email protected]

Paul Reese

May 1, 2011

Steve could tell me where to find the best restaurants in almost any city in the world. His stories made me laugh just in the telling and his ideas were usually bigger than life.
He was courageous in facing incredible complications with his health, deflecting bad news time after time.
I hope to think of Steve's example whenever I feel like complaining, and to maintain even a portion of his optimism and dignity.

May 1, 2011

We as a family of Peterson's - related to Steve as cousins - wish to give our condolences to all his family. We will never forget the wonderful "Berge Reunion" and visit at his home on Bainbridge Island. It was so nice to see him and talk with him.
Marjorie Peterson and her Family

April 28, 2011

Katherine and Lisa Anderson send our love and deep sympathy to Linda and brita,tim and Carol';Steve brought joy to people we deeply respect and care about.I know he brought love,and we wish to celebrate his life.

April 27, 2011

I just heard this news from Ruth Ann Forgette. Steve and I went to high school school together, lived together in college and work together at Speaker lab. If not too late I would certainly like to know of any celebration of Steves life. My e-mail [email protected].
My sincere condolencences to Steves family.
Michael Lynn

April 25, 2011

My very deepest sympathy to Linda, Brita, Tim and Carole. What a great guy. He really fought hard. Glad I met him. Wonderful that he met Linda. Blessings to the family.
(Widow of Clyde R. Ellingsen)
Mary E. Ellingsen

Bill Christen

April 25, 2011

Even though I only met Steve a few weeks back, it was an honor to know him and to care for him before he passed. He was very genuine and he was a pleasure to be around. I was very sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

April 23, 2011

The Todd family is grieving...we were privileged to have known Steve...

Jamee Nunnelee

April 19, 2011

So many memories Steve...a chuckle, a smile all the while, a red head, a tall man, such a voice, and a whit, he was his own and then a Dad, cool cars, a good wife, stlyle you did have... Missing you. Jamee

Teresa Ettel

April 19, 2011

Steve was such a funny, warm, and lovely man. I hope his army of friends and family provides solace to "Brita Bug" and Linda.

Susan Downing

April 19, 2011

I knew Steve many, many years ago, in the old Electricraft and Speakerlab days. He was a man you could never forget and would always be better for knowing him. What a generous soul. For those of you so close to him in these recent years I wish you the peace and time to heal. What a treasure is gone from this earth.

beth shanaman

April 18, 2011

It was an honor being part of your care team. What a positive strong spirit. You will be missed. Beth, Katy and Renin, Nutrition Department Northwest Kidney Centers

Jill Kinney

April 18, 2011

Steve, I'm sure that God is being duly entertained now. Your wonderful spirit has had a HUGE impact and will continue to serve us. Much love to your family.
A dear friend, Jill

Carol Frieberg

April 17, 2011

Steve had one of the most generous spirits I have ever known. He showed me kindness that I will never forget. I will try to live better as a result of his modeling. I love you, Steve...

Teri Weldy

April 17, 2011

Brita,
My heart goes out to you. My sympathies on the loss of your wonderful father. I'd love to hear from you when you can.
Love,
Teri Weldy

Patti Jo Saul - Burke

April 17, 2011

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Uncle Steve and Mary Ann

Mary Mickelson-Henneberg

April 17, 2011

I will miss you Uncle Steve! But, I know where you are, and I'll see you there someday again. You were like my "big brother" and my Mothers' "little brother" forever. Love, Your Niece Mary Ann

Suzi Spinner

April 17, 2011

To coin one phrase he used (this is what Steve stated, when I commented about his wife Linda when they first started dating. Only the word "made" was "make").....

You Steve, "made this world a better place".

I will miss him for a lifetime.

My heartfelt sympathies to Linda, Brita, and Tim.

Steve Martin

April 17, 2011

To the legion of friends loyal to Steve Williams,
I have known Steve for many years and worked out with him at a old gym on NW 65th st. in Ballard.
We connected two or three times a year. I will miss him very much.
I talked to him just five weeks ago and he was happy and couragous.
My sympathy to his Wife and Daughter,He will be missed by all who knew him.

Steve Martin

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