Robert Dale Alessandro

1934 — 2025

Robert Dale Alessandro, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on December 3rd at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in 1934, Robert graduated from Washington State University, where he developed a lifelong passion for Cougar athletics—especially football. He and his wife Priscilla were deeply engaged supporters of WSU for decades, receiving honors through the Cougar Club including the President's Circle, Director's Circle, and Crimson Blazer awards, recognizing their enduring commitment to student-athletes and university programs.

Robert built a distinguished career as a stockbroker, known for his professionalism, integrity, and dedication to helping others secure their financial futures. His achievements were acknowledged with honors such as Chairman's Council and President's Council awards, as well as national advisory roles. Colleagues, clients, and friends trusted him not just for his financial expertise, but for his ethics, humility, and genuine care for others.

Robert's love of community translated into leadership beyond his profession. He played an instrumental role in introducing professional baseball to Tacoma, serving in executive roles with the Tacoma Twins Baseball Club and supporting Triple-A baseball across multiple eras. A legacy that endures and thrives today with the Tacoma Rainiers. His contributions earned him recognition including the Dill Howell Award and other honors that highlight the lasting impact of his work in shaping Tacoma's baseball legacy. He was also active member of Kiwanis and the Navy League, organizations that reflected his deep belief in service, mentorship, and supporting youth and military families.

One of the most meaningful parts of Robert's life was his dedication to leukemia and cancer research and support following the loss of his son at age 18. For over 20 years, he and his wife Priscilla supported the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, earning the distinguished deVilliers Society Award in recognition of their leadership and generosity. Robert also chaired the Celebrity Waiters Luncheon, helping raise vital funds for research and families in need.

A lover of travel, adventure, and the outdoors, Robert especially cherished time spent salmon fishing—often heading to Alaska or Canada in pursuit of the big one. He had a knack for reeling in impressive catches and an even greater talent for telling the stories afterward. Whether swapping fish tales on the boat, braving icy morning waters, or sharing salmon dinners with family, those trips became legendary memories filled with humor, pride, and joy. He found joy in exploring new places, supporting athletics and the arts, cheering on the Cougs, and gathering with the people he loved most. He lived with intention, gratitude, and heart.

At the center of Robert's life was his family. He shared a 50-year marriage with his beloved wife, Priscilla, whose partnership was a constant source of joy and strength. He was a loving father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, and loyal friend who made others feel valued, supported, and deeply cared for.

Robert is survived by his wife, Priscilla; his daughters Julie (husband Paul) and Camilla (partner Dennis); and his grandchildren Jordan (husband Travis, and children Lane and Audrey), Jared, Lucca, and Enoch and many nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Nick and Ella; sisters, Jean and Betty; his sons, David and Tom (whose memories guided his lifelong advocacy for leukemia and cancer research and support); and nephew Terry.

A service honoring Robert's life will be held on December 17, 2025, at New Tacoma Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to youth baseball programs in Tacoma or to organizations supporting leukemia and cancer research, particularly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Robert leaves a legacy of leadership, service, and love—one that will continue to generations of family, friends, and community members who were touched by his life.