Russell "Dr. K" Kolbo, a highly esteemed and compassionate man from his birth on September 9, 1946, to his peaceful passing on August 6, 2024.  He was the embodiment of generosity, love, care, and humor.

His life bore witness to his dedication as a Chiropractic and Naturopathic  Physician who graduated from National Chiropractic College, Lombard, IL in 1969 and National College of Naturopathy, Seattle, WA in 1971. He found great joy and purpose in his work, starting his career as a Chiropractic Physician in 1970.  While living in Maui, he owned and operated Living in Wellness School for Colon Hydrotherapy.  He had a passion for training others to become Colon Hydrotherapists.  After decades of committed service to his community, he retired from Mt Rainier Clinic and the Mt Rainier Spa and Infusion Center in Gig Harbor in 2022.

Russell's heart always had room for others, most notably autistic children and kids with cerebral palsy whom he treated with hyperbaric, IV therapy, and colon hydrotherapy. His greatest joy resided in these humble yet transformative efforts. This dedication extended to his roles as a past president at the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy (I-ACT) and lecturer at Bastyr University.

Among his personal interests were water skiing and helping family and friends. His preferred vacation spots included Hawaii, Leavenworth, and Lake Cushman. He loved the Tacoma Rainiers & Seattle Mariners Baseball teams, and he routed for the Gonzaga Bulldogs, the Seattle Seahawks, University of WA Huskies, and the Kraken Hockey league. Russell had an endearing fondness for Ahi Tuna, Lamb Shanks, Italian and Mexican foods, as well as Rum and White Russians. 

He had a love for Hawaiian music, especially the music of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, "Over the Rainbow".  Russell and Cherie's favorite song was "You Are My Special Angel" by Bobby Helms.

Russell was welcomed to his Eternal Home by his beloved wife, Cherie Triebwasser Kolbo; his father, David L. Kolbo; his mother, Thelma King Kolbo, and his brother, David Kolbo.

Left on shore to say their goodbyes are Russell's sons, Brent and Brad Kolbo; stepson, Ryan Hansen and wife Marie Halley Hansen, grandchildren Hayden and Hunter Kolbo, Lexy Hansen, Lindee Halley, great-granddaughter Sarah, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

A celebration of life for Russell will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Edison Square, 5415 S. Tacoma Way, Tacoma WA 98409 where his indomitable spirit and life lessons will continue to inspire everyone to love and help others.  As a tribute to Russell's love of Hawaii, his celebration of life will be Hawaiian themed. 

Russell's legacy will forever endure, not only in his professional achievements but more importantly, in the countless lives he touched, both directly and indirectly. His memory will continue to shine as brightly as his favorite color, blue, and his influence will persist as a testament to his incredible life and career.

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