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Robert Schmelzle Obituary
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 worked as a general contractor and ran his own construction company for many years before retiring. An avid sportsman, Bob loved fishing and cycling. He enjoyed getting his pilot's license and owning his own airplane.
Bob was known for his delicious sourdough pizzas, especially the 'ham & egg' pizza. 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.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Schmelzle
1 Entry
Scott and Heidi Whaley
December 15, 2025
Losing Bob feels like losing a part of our own family. We first met him when he built our home, and from the very start, his exceptional skill as a finish carpenter stood out-meticulous, punctual, and dedicated to every detail. But beyond his craftsmanship, Bob was a man with a big heart and an even bigger presence-kind, loud, and full of life.
Our friendship blossomed instantly. We bonded over his legendary pizza and swapped sourdough bread recipes and baking tips. We shared countless adventures-fishing trips, foraging for morel mushrooms, runs, and long walks. Bob was the kind of person who seemed to know everything about everything, always ready to share his knowledge and opinions with a passionate voice.
His love for his wife, Justine, was unmistakable; he would light up the room whenever she entered. His family was his pride and joy, and that devotion was evident to everyone who knew him. Together, we traveled to Hawaii where he delighted in snorkeling, and we spent many peaceful days on San Juan Island fishing, building fires, and simply enjoying the moment.
Bob was more than a friend-he was like a brother. A big, tall, loud, living brother whose spirit filled every room and every moment. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be a part of our lives.
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