Svein Nyhammer of Shoreline, Washington, passed away peacefully in the presence of family on July 26, 2025, after a life well lived.  He was 95.

Svein was born in Gulen, Norway, to Mons and Sara Nyhammer on October 5, 1929.  He spent his youth nearby in Isdalstø.  He was the sixth of seven children.  Svein attended commercial college in Bergen and worked at Bergens Kreditbank until 1952 when his adventurous spirit led him to leave his homeland behind in search of opportunities in Canada and then in the United States where he eventually became a proud American citizen.  He met his sweetheart, Eva Sørlien, in May of 1960, when he crashed her 25th Birthday party in Ballard.  They married the next January, and four children followed.

 A hard worker and a risk taker, Svein tried his hand at several endeavors but ultimately his heart and passion belonged in the fishing industry where he had a long and successful career.  He fished halibut, crab, cod, salmon and shrimp.  Eventually he became a partner and skipper of two crab vessels, the Rollo and the Neptune.  The Rollo and his two Bristol Bay salmon boats are still in operation.  He fished his last salmon season when he was 80.  He was highly regarded in the fishing community for his integrity and honesty.

Athletically inclined, Svein loved skiing and kicking around a soccer ball.  He also enjoyed watching sports, especially the Seahawks with family and friends around him.  He entertained many with his musical talents on the harmonica, accordion and guitar.  As well, he sang in the Norwegian Male Chorus for many years, which he truly enjoyed.

Svein was always up for family and friends stopping by for a visit or a swim at his home.  He was well known among his children, their friends, neighbors, and his grandchildren for his delicious Swedish Pancakes, which he served with a wink and a smile.  He was a humble man, reserved in nature, who had a gentle spirit and was liked by all who knew him.  He will be missed dearly.

He is survived by Eva, his beautiful wife of 64 years and his children, Eric (Michelle), Vivian (Christian), Kristina, and Anne (Ken) along with his beloved grandchildren, Jergen, Christian, Camilla, Mattias, Kai and Jonas.  He also leaves behind a brother, Karsten, and many nieces and nephews in Norway. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Per, his parents, three sisters, two brothers and many dear friends.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s research, or a charity of your choice.  

A special thank you to everyone at Norse Home and Callahan House for the excellent care and kindness they showed Svein and his family. 

Hvil i fred, kjære Papa