Arthur Phillip "Art" Folden passed away peacefully in Tacoma, Washington, on Friday, June 16, 2023, at the age of 90.
Art was born in Tacoma on Oct. 10, 1932, to Norwegian immigrants, Anna and Peter Folden. A master storyteller, Art loved sharing fascinating tales of growing up in Post Depression and wartime Tacoma. After graduating from Lincoln High School in 1950, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. In 1953, he met his beloved Carolyn, his life partner for nearly 70 years. They married in 1955, and together, raised four daughters.
After graduating from Gonzaga University in 1960 with a business degree, Art returned to Tacoma with his family to begin an illustrious 54-year banking career, one that would eventually include managing National Bank of Washington in Chehalis, Washington, and starting Harbor Community Bank in Raymond, Washington. Even after his retirement in 1997, Art continued as a consultant for starting new banks, and served as a bank director in a variety of capacities until 2014 when he left Fife Commercial Bank.
Art loved visiting abroad with Carolyn and other family members. Beginning with a trip to Norway, his travels would take him to most of Eastern and Western Europe. His favorite and most frequently visited place, however, was England, where he and Carolyn shared many wonderful adventures. When not traveling, Art was passionate about his yard and was truly a master gardener, bringing great joy to friends and family with his amazing floral creations.
Art was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, family member and friend. He will be remembered as a consummate gentleman — welcoming, kind and generous.
Art is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, George, Betty and Gladys; his beloved grandson, Kristian; and his infant great-grandchildren, Kristian and Lucy.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his daughters, Laurie (Richard), Karrie (Paul), Sallie (Don) and Jaimie (Jim); nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private celebration of life is planned for a later date. To continue Art's legacy of kindness and generosity, please consider sending a bouquet of flowers to someone special.
