Robin Leanne Kuhnle, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away with loved ones by her side on November 5, 2024. She was born on October 19, 1948, in Eureka, to Albert Ross Kuhnle and Audrey Lee Kuhnle. She was the cherished sister of Gordon Kuhnle Sr.

Robin’s family history is steeped in rich heritage, with roots tracing back to L.K. Wood, a member of the expedition led by Captain Josiah Gregg that discovered Humboldt Bay in 1849. The Kuhnle lineage also extends to the American Revolution and to Betsy Ross.

Robin graduated from Eureka Senior High School in 1966, where she was an active member of the Loggerettes. She also participated in Frances Baribault’s charm school and was a contestant in the 1967 Miss Humboldt competition. Robin’s formative years were spent with the Winter and Pine families, creating lifelong memories through camping, motorcycle rides, drive-in movies and sleepovers.

A lover of learning, Robin studied French and journalism at College of the Redwoods and Humboldt State University. She married Ed Jarrell in 1973, and together they shared a life until their divorce in 1983.

Robin spent many summers at the family cabin in Willow Creek, where she and her loved ones gathered for camping trips, parties, and thrilling adventures down the Trinity River.

Robin’s generous spirit, quick wit and sense of humor made her a favorite among family and friends. Her love for others was boundless, and she was always ready to lend a hand or offer a laugh.

Though she thought motherhood might not be in her future, her son, Ross, was born on July 12, 1986, and became the light of her life. As a mother, Robin was loving, devoted, and endlessly proud of her son.

In her professional life, Robin worked at Sears before joining the family business, K & M Glass Co., in 1970. She later became vice president and, after her brother Gordon Sr. retired, president, until the company closed its doors in 2015.

Over the years, Robin was an active member of the community, participating in Eureka Main Street, Eureka Heritage Society, the Kinetic Sculpture Races, Quota Club, and chairing the Rutabaga Queen Contest for many years.

In the last 18 years of her life, Robin was blessed with the joy of being a grandmother to her three granddaughters — Fionna, Audrey, and Juliet Kuhnle. Her heart was full as she spent countless hours with them, from the day Fionna was born (a moment she cherished deeply) to weekends spent in Willow Creek, fun shopping trips, breakfasts at the Moose Lodge, and endless sleepovers. Being a grandmother was one of Robin’s greatest joys.

Robin leaves behind her loving son, Ross, and granddaughters Fionna, Audrey and Juliet. She also leaves behind her dear friends and extended family.

Robin is preceded in death by her parents, Ross and Audrey Kuhnle, her brother, Gordon Kuhnle Sr.; her aunt, Phyllis Kuhnle; her uncle and aunt, Stedman and Fay Winter; and her aunt and uncle Bearnice and Edward Kuhnle.

The family extends special thanks to the PACE program, Patricia Gallagher and Jeannie Johnson for their love and care during Robin’s final years. A celebration of Robin’s life will be held at a later date.