Frederick L. Robinson, III

Minister Robinson transitioned peacefully from this life on October 23, 2018 after a fierce 11-year battle with brain cancer.  He was 64.  Frederick was born in Seattle on February 15, 1954 to Arlelia O. and Frederick L. Robinson Jr.  He was the first-born grandchild and was lovingly known as Little Freddy or Freddy to family and friends.  Freddy was a strong protector of his 3 younger siblings, Gwen, Sheryl and Michael.  He was their teacher, guide and introduced them to all that was cool and hip.  He would often be seen in the neighborhood with his sibling entourage traipsing behind him.  Frederick was a graduate of Lincoln High School, Class of 72 and participated in the University of Washington’s Upward Bound Program.

In his early years, Frederick learned to play guitar with lessons from his friend, Herbert Owens. He had some professional training as well. He excelled to become one of the best guitar players in the Pacific NW.  He performed with several bands including, Hot Ice, The Natural Four, Southside Syndicate, AJ Funk & Stuff, Cold Bold & Together and Robbie Hills Family Affair, to name a few. He traveled from California to Canada sharing his musical genius.

After many years in the secular music scene, Frederick accepted Christ as his personal savior and began playing his gospel jazz style.  In addition, he was a drug and alcohol counselor who touched many lives.  He was able to be so successful as a counselor because he had overcome the pain and heartache of addiction in his own life.  He worked in several facilities and was the Director of the Union Gospel Mission’s, recovery facility New Vision, in the Central District of Seattle. His last job before he became disabled was Director of Recovery Services at the Eastside Academy in Bellevue.

Minister Robinson met his wife Diana while playing guitar for Holly Park Community Church.  The mutual love of music was one of the things that attracted them.  They had one daughter, Ericka in this union.  Frederick and Diana ministered in song together at Emerald City Bible Fellowship even as he fought his cancer battle.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Diana, daughter, Ericka, Mother, Arlelia Robinson, Father, Frederick L Robinson, Jr., Step Son Jerrold Jackson, Grandchildren Jalen Jackson and Jordan Matheson-Jackson, Brother Michael (Joan) Robinson, Sisters Gwen Robinson & Sheryl Robinson, Aunts Dora (John) Smith, Edna (Tony) Softli, In laws Bruce Pittman, Robert Pittman, Derrick Pittman and Doris Pittman and so many other family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his Uncle Grant (Runk) Nevels, Auntie Bernice Ballard and Son, Frederick L. Robinson IV.

            ~ Rest in peace, troubadour of God ~

***Donations may be made payable to Rainier Scholars 2100 24th Ave S #360, Seattle, WA 98144 in Mr. Frederick Robinson's name.

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