HomeMy WebLinkAboutHandout - Gary KohlwesHOUSE RESOLUTION
By Representative Bergquist
WHEREAS, Dr. Gary Kohlwes was the superintendent for the Renton School District from 1974
to 1997 where his steadfast leadership and guidance was seen by many; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Kohlwes empowered and encouraged countless teachers, students, and
administrators that contributed to the strength and success of the Renton School District; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Kohlwes attended Western Washington University for his bachelor’s and
master’s degrees, and ultimately obtained his doctorate in educational psychology from the University of
Washington; and
WHEREAS, many of his academic colleagues describe him as a supportive and honest person,
who is tough-minded, multifaceted, and hard-working; and
WHEREAS, in his community, Dr. Kohlwes served as Director of First Financial Northwest
Bank, a position which he held for 36 years and later served as Chairman of the Board for 4 years; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Kohlwes was able to give back to his community as Executive Director and
Trustee of the First Financial Northwest Foundation through various charitable causes, including a recent
three million dollar donation to Doug Baldwin’s Family First Community Center in Renton’s Benson
Hill/Cascade neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, various Renton civic organizations have benefitted from the leadership of Dr.
Kohlwes, including the Renton Rotary Club where he served as a past president and is still active; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Kohlwes also took great pride as a college basketball coach and trainer at
Western Washington University; and
WHEREAS, he was a high school teacher, and as coach, once led the Arlington High School
football team through an undefeated season; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Kohlwes has dedicated an immeasurable amount of personal time to his
community and has shown his devotion through acts of service and valuable contributions; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Kohlwes and his wife, Elizabeth, have raised two boys and two girls, all
graduates of Renton High School, during their marriage of over 60 years;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives
recognize Dr. Gary Kohlwes for his long dedication as a teacher, superintendent and Director in
Washington State, and, above all, wish him the best health and happiness in his retirement.