Robert O. Cromwell

August 10, 1917 - July 8, 2002

Robert O. Cromwell, of the Athenian Inn at the Pike Place Market, passed away July 8, 2002 in Seattle, Washington.

Robert had been a resident of Seattle since the early 1950s. He was a man of many interests, and talents. Skiing, golfing, swimming, fishing, gardening, painting, remodeling, and most of all, cooking. His start in the restaurant/hospitality industry began when he and his wife Louise, vacationing at a small fishing resort on Hood Canal, stepped in to help the owner, who had just lost his entire kitchen and dining room crew. His first restaurant ownership began with the Fireside Inn in the Kent/Des Moines area.

Bob’s business acumen and culinary skills at the Athenian Inn in the Pike Place Farmers Market turned the Athenian Inn into a Seattle landmark, where visiting dignitaries, theater troupes and rock stars mingled with thousands of tourists and local customers. Bob was thrilled when a scene from “Sleepless in Seattle” was filmed inside the Athenian Inn.

Bob was born in Tacoma, Washington. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Elizabeth Cromwell and his brother, Charles Cromwell. He is survived by his wife, Louise; his brother Webster Foreman; his sister Elizabeth Macthette and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob proudly served four years in the United States Navy and a second, unexpected stint in the Korean Conflict.

He will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Bob’s life was held in the chapel of Bayview Manor Retirement Residence, located at 11 West Aloha Street, Seattle, Washington on Thursday, July 18 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s name to the Pike Place Market Foundation or a favorite charity.