Robert Joseph Kroum Jr.

Robert (Rob) Joseph Kroum, Jr. passed away on January 18, 2022 at the age of 68 in Chandler, Arizona. Rob was born in Seattle, Washington to Robert J. Sr. and Ruth M. (Zettle) Kroum. He grew up with his three sisters in Bellevue, Washington. In his youth, Rob found a passion for the great-outdoors as a boy scout and as a young man, he enjoyed running, camping, water skiing, and especially hiking.

He graduated Newport Highschool in 1971 and went on to attend Seattle University where he developed a deep-rooted passion for philosophy and history. He had many fond memories of his time at Seattle U and he maintained life-long friendships with those he met there. He graduated with a degree in Police Science and Administration, but found professional success in sales. He could sell anything; his friendly and optimistic personality made him a natural-born salesman. He eventually went on to establish his own medicare-insurance business, which was a great point of pride for him.

His greatest joy was his family. He always said that marrying his wife, Emma was the “smartest decision he ever made”. Kaitlin, his “favorite older daughter” and Natalie, his “favorite younger daughter” were his favorite topic of conversation. He shared with them his Catholic faith, his taste in music, and his love of Disneyland. He was proud of everything they did, and they are eternally grateful to have called him “Dad”.

While not a “native Arizonan”, Rob and his family resided in Arizona for 25 years. Even so, Rob maintained friendships with people all over the country; he would rarely be found without a telephone in hand. Rob had the special ability to befriend everyone he met. From close friends to complete strangers, his enthusiastic conversation skills made him loved by all. However, nobody could adore him more than his dog Alex and his “grand-dog” Abby.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Emma, their daughters Kaitlin and Natalie, his sisters Joyce Manning (Richard), Jeanine Kroum, and Katy Mills (John), his nephews and nieces: Rick and Chris Manning, Rachel Hohenegger, Emily and Carly Mills. He is also survived by his in-laws, the Orillaneda family. He will be greatly missed.

A devout Catholic, Rob’s faith never wavered. He had many bible verses memorized, but his favorite was John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life”.

Funeral mass will be held on March 17, 2022 at 11 am at St. Louise Catholic Church, Bellevue WA. Graveside service at 12:30 pm at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, reception follows also at Sunset Hills. In remembrance of Rob, the family suggests donations be made to St. Louise Catholic Church.