Robin Kathleen Hojem

Robin Kathleen Hojem passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026, in Olympia, the city she lovingly called home for most of her life. She was born on March 11, 1954 in Gladwin Michigan to Dale and Peggy Hojem. In 1962, the Hojem family moved to Olympia with their seven children, beginning a lifelong connection to the community Robin cherished so deeply.

Robin lived a life defined by compassion, resilience, humor, and devotion to the people she loved. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dale and Peggy Hojem, her sister Barbara, and her brother Mark. She is survived by her beloved son, Tyler Jorgensen, along with Tyler’s family, fiancée Casey and daughter Sydney. Robin also leaves behind her siblings and their spouses: Douglas, Catharine, Leslie, David, Becky, Laurel, and Stephen, as well as many nieces and nephews who will forever hold her memory close.

Robin attended McKinley Grade School, Chinook Junior High School, and North Thurston High School, where she made history as the school’s first female Senior Class President. A gifted speaker and natural leader, she was also chosen as a commencement speaker for the graduating Class of 1972.

She graduated from Evergreen State College in 1984, and earned her Master’s Degree from St. Martin’s College in 1986. Robin worked tirelessly to put herself through school as a popular waitress, bartender and caterer/party planner while raising Tyler, he remembers having Shirley Temples (always with the cherry), and seeing lots of 80’s style satin screen-press jackets from long gone Olympia establishments like her beloved Casey’s Tavern and the Trail’s End, as well as being on site and preparing at historic locations like the Evergreen Ballroom and The Tyee for large scale gatherings.

Upon graduation Robin’s professional career saw her strive to help others lift themselves up via social work and education. She was deeply passionate about helping at-risk children and families build better lives through education and opportunity. Her professional work included being a driving force for children’s education at Head Start, and eventually proudly serving families throughout Washington State as a Program Administrator for the Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges “Families that Work” program.

Robin embraced life fully. She was intelligent, athletic, generous, witty, and effortlessly welcoming. Friends and family were always drawn to her warmth and her ability to make any gathering feel special. Of all her accomplishments and joys, none meant more to her than being Tyler’s mother. She adored him beyond measure, and supported him fully in his endeavors, while encouraging him to try any and everything that piqued his interest.

She proudly supported his athletic career, first as the scorekeeper all through grade school for his championship South Bay Little League baseball team; later she rarely if ever missed a high school or college basketball game he played. She gifted Tyler too many things to list, but we must include her love of cooking for others, gardening, and most importantly, caring for the people around them.

Robin was a remarkable cook who could prepare everything from elegant roast dinners to delicate pastries and cakes with equal skill. She also encouraged Tyler to explore the foods she loved and cooked, and he did so enthusiastically. He remembers as a youngster cracking and eating fresh crab, fondue nights, dipping steamed artichokes in garlic butter, and trying (and asking for seconds on) home-prepared escargot, and all while still in grade school. Robbie loved tending her flowers and found peace and joy in gardening. She also loved animals, especially the many beloved pets who became part of her family over the years. A friend of the family once remarked that when he died, he wanted to be reborn as one of Robin’s pets. While there were many amazing animals, a couple deserve special note. On Christmas Day 1980 Peggy’s poodle sired a gray half keeshond named “Obie”. Obie’s full name was Obi Won Kanobi, and yes, 5 year old Tyler fully participated in the naming. And anyone that knew Robin in her waning years likely knew the dog that was with her right to the end, the lap-loving Havanese “Gracie”, whom she named for one of her favorite singers, Grace Slick.

She was fiercely loyal to her friends and family, a legendary pool shark, and an enthusiastic fan of the Seahawks. Robin was also deeply devoted to her parents. After her mother Peggy passed away, Robin lovingly cared for her father Dale in her home during the final years of his life.

A lifelong member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Robin found comfort and community through her faith. Her family is especially grateful to the church for the kindness, support, and friendship they extended to her throughout the years, including frequent pastoral visits to her right to the end.

Robin faced significant health challenges later in life with extraordinary courage. Chronic back pain never slowed her spirit, but in 2012 she had a life-altering stroke. Shortly thereafter she was diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a rare and incurable disease. Despite the hardships she endured, Robin continued to live with determination, humor, and grace, making the most of every moment she was given.

For the last decade of her life, Tyler served as Robin’s devoted caregiver. His extraordinary love, patience, and dedication allowed her to remain surrounded by family and comfort, and those who loved Robin will always be profoundly grateful for the care he gave his mother. Robin was also blessed by the unwavering support of many dear friends. The family would especially like to recognize her lifelong friends Rhonda Brooks and Joanie Pop.

Robin will be remembered as a beautiful free spirit whose laughter, kindness, and strength left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Rest in peace, Robbie.

An informal Celebration of Life will held on Sunday June 7th at 1pm at Tyler’s home, to share memories and stories. Food and beverages will be provided. Please feel welcome to reach out for directions and RSVP. Text Tyler at 805-294-2789 or email [email protected] with any questions.