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Westford Funeral Home & Cremation, 1301 Broadway Street, Bellingham, WA (2026)

02/19/2026

Barbara J. Bloch

Barbara, our beloved wife, daughter, sister, cousin, aunt, and friend, passed away with her loved ones by her side on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2026.

Barbara was born in Bellingham, WA, on February 21, 1972, to parents Edward and Lorene (Gudmundson) Meck. She moved with her family at two years old from a small farm in Blaine down to Ferndale, where she spent her childhood in a loving family home with two older siblings. She comes from a large extended Gudmundson/Breidford family of Blaine and surrounding areas. Many holidays, weekends, and vacations were spent with cousins, aunts, uncles, and her grandmother. Barbara worked from her teenage years up to her passing, mostly in the customer service field, as she always approached people with her beautiful smile and easy spirit, which earned praise for her loving personality.

Barbara graduated from Ferndale High School in 1990. She met the love of her life, Mike Bloch, and they were married on April 10, 2004, in Elizabeth Park on a beautiful sunny day. Barbara and Mike never had children, so they enjoyed traveling, attending concerts (never missing seeing the Foo Fighters), spending time with family, and were also parents to many dogs and cats over the years, with their current dog being Beau.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward J. Meck in 2016 and Lorene J. Meck in 2025.

Survivors include her husband, Mike Bloch, and dog, Beau; siblings: Ken (Kristy) Meck, Carol (Rick) Schusster, and sisters-in-law Ann (Matt) Berger and Robin (Andy) Betts; nephews and nieces: Ashley (Tyler) Boesen, Erika (Gilbert) Dorland, Logan (Fayth Buck) Meck, Elliott Berger, Olivia (Logan) Berger, Sophia Berger, and Aidan Betts; great nephews and nieces: Jackson and Zoey Roberts, Gilbert and Gage Dorland, Dakota and Margot Boesen, and Layla and Baker Perdue.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 1st, at 11:00 a.m. at Westford Funeral Home (1301 Broadway, Bellingham), with a reception following across the street at Westford’s Broadway Hall.

View Barbara J. Bloch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/19/2026

Charlyn M. Dalvit

Born in Spokane, WA, to parents, Lynn (Art) and Sherry Johnson, Charlyn passed away in Bellingham, WA, on February 17, 2026.

She was a valedictorian of her 1999 graduating class from East Valley High School as well as the first EVHS student to earn a Spokane Scholar award (foreign languages). Charlyn graduated from the University of Washington with degrees in Spanish (cum laude) and Speech Communications (summa cm laude). Charlyn served one year volunteering with World Teach as an English teacher in Antofagasta, Chile. Charlyn earned a Master’s in teaching from Whitworth University. She accepted her first teaching assignment as a Spanish teacher at R.A. Long High School in Longview, WA, where she also coached JV volleyball. Charlyn and Kyle were married in 2012, and the couple settled in Bellingham. Charlyn began teaching high school Spanish at Mount Vernon High School. Charlyn was a devoted Catholic, wife, mother, friend, and teacher. She loved traveling and experiencing other cultures and cuisines.

Charlyn fought a courageous two-year battle against cancer.

Survivors include her husband, Kyle Dalvit; daughters, Evlyne (age 8) and Aleria (age 5); parents, Lynn “Art” and Sherry Johnson; sister, Renee (Scott) Shaw, and their children Ben, Esme, and Eden.

Vigil will be held at 6pm on Monday, March 2, at Church of the Assumption. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30am on Tuesday, March 3, at Church of the Assumption. Following the Mass, there will be a reception at Westford's Broadway Hall. This will be another opportunity to share memories and see photos of Charlyn.

You can visit Charlyn's Caring Bridge site at this link.

View Charlyn M. Dalvit's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/16/2026

Ruth Ann A. Burley

Ruth Ann Burley passed away on February 9th in her home surrounded by loved ones. She was born in Plentywood, Montana to Christian and Vera Christensen on October 29, 1936. She grew up on a farm and attended school in a one-room schoolhouse. As a child she spent countless hours riding horses, sledding, and skating with her sister Patricia and her brother Gene. She graduated with a degree in business from the University of Montana in 1958, where she met and married Jerry Schreuder in June of that year. They had four children together: Jane, Lee, Christian, and Laura. She married Richard Burley in 1990 and spent many happy years with him until he passed away in 2020.

Ruth Ann lived in Bow, WA for 59 years, and recently moved to Burlington. She was employed as a business education teacher, church secretary, caregiver, piano teacher, and musician. She was a talented pianist and organist for several churches and events who never lost the thrill of learning a new piece of music. Friendship, faith, and music filled her days. She was a devoted member of the local Faith Lutheran and Edison Lutheran churches.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Jane Schreuder, husband, Richard Burley, parents, Vera and Christian Christensen, and brother, Gene Christensen.

She treasured her family and friends throughout her life, and we will cherish her gifts of laughter, encouragement, and unconditional love. She is survived by her sister, Pat Werle, children, Lee (Ren) Schreuder, Chris (Woo Chun) Schreuder, Laura (Carlton) Steele, grandchildren, Annika and Cody Steele, stepchildren, Richard, Celeste, Susan, Dexter, and Ron Burley, and many nieces and nephews.

Ruth Ann will be remembered for her generosity, kindness, positivity, and open heart. A celebration of life service will be held at Edison Lutheran Church (14201 Church Road, Bow, WA) on Saturday, March 14th at 2:00pm. All are welcome.

View Ruth Ann A. Burley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/14/2026

Nancy Markwood

Nancy Ann Markwood, age 77, passed away on February 13, 2026, in Ferndale, WA.

She was born on October 22, 1948, in Bellingham, WA to parents John “Jack” and Doris Thomas.

Nancy dedicated her life to her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren – they are what brought her the most joy. She was a proud “Disney Adult” and had spent countless years visiting the park and never lost her sense of wonder. She was strong in her faith and was a member of Faith Lutheran Church for over 40 years.

Nancy is survived by her children, Steven (Beth) Markwood and Jennifer (Ken) Thompson; grandchildren, Madeline (Daniel), Drew (Sierra), Allison (Joel), Noah (Myleah), Kade, Tanner, and Hannah; great-grandchildren, Naevi, Lennon, and Kovur; brother, John (Misty) Thomas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nancy will be laid to rest at Greenacres Memorial Park on Wednesday, February 18th at 10am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nancy’s name to The Malloy Place and Alzheimer’s Association.

View Nancy Markwood's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/12/2026

Thomas W. Yorkston

Thomas William Yorkston passed away on February 6, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 66.

Tom was born in Bellingham, Washington, on May 18, 1959, to Thomas and Patricia (Oaks) Yorkston. He spent much of his working life as a tanker truck driver for Yorkston Oil before later working for the City of Bellingham.

Tom enjoyed golfing, fishing, woodworking, and spending time at the river property he loved so much. Being outdoors, puttering around, and enjoying the simple things brought him the greatest contentment.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Patricia Yorkston.

Tom is survived by his siblings, Debbie Rothenbuhler, Nancy Yorkston, and Kathy Yorkston; daughter Brianna McKiernan (John); his nieces and nephews, Angila Wilson, Edward Witherell (Ronda), and Patrick Yorkston; and his great-niece and great-nephew, Alexis Wilson and Tanner Wilson.

Tom will be laid to rest at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 23, at Bayview Cemetery in Bellingham.

View Thomas W. Yorkston's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/02/2026

Graydon L. Robertson

Graydon Robertson was born on October 12, 1933, in Edmonton, Alberta, and was raised in Everett.

He lived a long, working life defined by his hands, his grit, and his refusal to have some else do a job he could clearly do himself. He worked as a builder, carpenter, millwright, and small business owner - jobs that required precision, strength, and persistence. Graydon believed in doing things himself and doing them right. If something was broken, he fixed it. If it didn’t work, he made it work. He had a lifelong love of cars, dogs, and Cookie. His cars were always waxed, constantly, especially his black Porsche Panamera. He chose the hatchback not for just for the style, but because the dogs couldn’t make the jump otherwise.

Graydon is survived by his wife of 73 years, Carol Robertson; his sons, Darryl (Julie) and Michael; three grandchildren: Cameron (Kelly), Colby (Rachel) and Whitney (Michael) and eight great-grandchildren.

He was steady, stubborn, and loyal. He showed his care not just through words, but also through his hard work. He built things that lasted, and he leaves behind a family shaped by that same strength.

View Graydon L. Robertson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/29/2026

Danny Ludington

Dan was born on December 27, 1934, in Bellingham, Washington, to Daniel R. and Thelma H. Ludington (Adams) on his mother's birthday. He spent most of his life in Whatcom County, except for a memorable childhood living on Chichagof Island, Alaska, where his father worked as a cook in a mining camp. That experience left a lasting imprint on his heart, and his love for that unique place stayed with him throughout his life.

Dan met Sally Sleem at Bellingham High School, and they married in 1954. Together, they shared 46 wonderful years until Sally's passing in 2000. They raised their family in Bellingham and later enjoyed retirement on Hood Canal, where they spent countless days crabbing, fishing, and savoring their famous fried oysters and steamed clams. Those years created cherished memories with their grandchildren.

A carpenter by trade, Dan was known for his strong work ethic and honesty. His top priority in life was always the care and protection of his family. He could fix or "jerry-rig" almost anything and was never without a handkerchief and jackknife in his pocket. His talent for woodworking and carving shone through in the Native American masks he created, each with its own story.

Dan and Sally shared an extraordinary circle of friends from the BHS Class of '52, whose camaraderie enriched their lives through camping, boating, and social gatherings. Their home was always open to friends who wanted to "drop by." After Sally's passing, Dan was blessed with the companionship of Elizabeth Suel for over 20 years-a source of strength, comfort, and love.

Dan is survived by his children: Mark Ludington, Brian Ludington, and Laurie Jones (Steve); grandchildren Danielle Fecht (Tony), Nicholas Jones (Jenn), Keenan Jones, Spencer Ludington (Skyler), Emma Ludington (Brandon), and Michael Jones (Hana); and great-grandchildren Tre, Brantley, River, Emery, Theodore, and Charlotte. Brothers; Gary Farrow (Diane); Milton Ludington (Megan); James (Fernanda) and Sister; the late Lorinda Lezer (Daniel).

An open house reception will be held in Danny's honor on Saturday, March 28th from 11am – 2pm at the Squalicum Boathouse (2600 N. Harbor Loop, Bellingham). Danny and Sally will be laid to rest together at Hopewell Cemetery in Everson.

View Danny Ludington's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/23/2026

Christina M. Baker

Born on March 6, 1959, in Hardin, MT, to parents Billy and Marianne (Gregory) Butts, Christina passed away on January 20, 2026, in Blaine, WA.

Growing up in Montana, she spent her time running around with her siblings and cousins, riding horses, learning to fish and hunt from her father, and reading anything she could get her hands on. When her family moved to Alaska once she was in college, she soon followed, getting a job at the power plant on the army base there. She met Vern Baker and soon they got married and a few years later, she had a son, Michael. Soon after, Vern and she divorced, and she raised her son on her own. She then proceeded to go back to college at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, majoring in English and minoring in History. After she graduated, she got a job with the University, working in the proposal office as the proposal coordinator. Her son grew up, left Alaska, later settling in Bellingham, WA, and she decided to follow soon after. She eventually settled in Blaine, WA, getting a job with what eventually became UPS Supply Chain Solutions, where she worked as a Customs Broker for 23 years.

She was a voracious reader. She taught herself to read at a young age, and her mother and father encouraged it, even going as far as giving her permission at the local library to check out books that were what would have been far considered far above her reading level for her age. She carried this love her entire life. A huge fan of Ann Rice and the Dragon Riders series, she loved all written word.

She also loved crafts, specifically making Christmas ornaments with no two being alike. She also loved to cook and bake. Even when she couldn’t really eat it herself, she would make a variety of treats to bring into the office and it was always among the first things to be gone.

Christina was a tough woman. She taught her son many lessons when it came to making sure that he didn’t let anyone walk over him and take advantage. She also instilled a love of reading and baking in him as well. One of his fondest memories is how she was able to make people change their tune with simply a look. Being a single mother, she raised her son to treat women with respect.

Survivors include her son, Michael Baker; her grandkids, Kylah Baker and Quintin Baker; and her siblings, Ima Jean Heron, Gregory Butts, Susan Boyer, and Richard Cox.

View Christina M. Baker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/22/2026

Steven Romaine Apeles

Steven Romaine Apeles passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning of January 10, 2026. He is survived by his children, Kyla Apeles, Brandon Apeles, and Mason Apeles, who were his greatest pride and will carry his memory forward.

Steven was a deeply intelligent and curious individual whose brilliance showed in the way he approached the world. He had an inventive mind and a natural ability to learn, build, and create.

Those who knew Steven remember his remarkable ingenuity and playful curiosity. He delighted in exploring the world, learning new skills, and bringing joy to those around him. His warmth, energy, and engaging personality left a lasting impression on everyone who met him.

A celebration of Steven’s life is planned for July 2026 at Larrabee State Park. Additional details will be shared closer to the date and will be shared on Steven's page.

View Steven Romaine Apeles's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/20/2026

Janet Eileen Starkenburg

Janet Starkenburg, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and resilient spirit, passed away peacefully at the age of 90. Born on April 5, 1935, in Bellingham, Washington, she was the daughter of Gilbert and Evelyn Halverson. Janet grew up in Bellingham alongside her older sister, Rhoda, and younger brother, James “Jim”, forming the foundation of a close-knit family that shaped her lifelong values of love and perseverance.

Janet navigated life’s chapters with grace, surviving two marriages that brought both challenges and growth. In her senior years, she truly found herself - embracing what mattered most: independence, joy, and deep connections with those she loved. A highlight of her life was co-building the successful Starkenburg Shavings business alongside her family, a venture that provided stability and opened doors to extraordinary world travel and moments of self-discovery. Through adventures across the globe, she collected memories, friendships, and a profound appreciation for life’s beauty.

Janet’s greatest legacy lives on in her three devoted children: Jodi Moline, Jackie Schoonover, and Jeff Johnson, who in later years were the center of her world. She delighted in their accomplishments, shared wisdom from her experiences, and offered unwavering support through every season of life.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert and Evelyn Halverson; sister, Rhoda Fickel; and brother, James Halverson. She is survived by her three children, Jodi Moline, Jackie Schoonover, and Jeff Johnson; six grandchildren, Shelby Moline, Justin Schoonover, Logan Moline, Patrick Schoonover, Jon Johnson, and Hayley Snow; and 6 great-grandchildren, Holden Schoonover, Nathanial Moline, Hunter Schoonover, Declan Moline, Hope Moline, and baby Snow who is on the way.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, March 14, Westford Funeral Home (1301 Broadway, Bellingham). A reception will follow at Broadway Hall.

Janet’s story is one of quiet strength, faith, late-blooming fulfillment, and enduring love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her warmth and spirit. With love from her family.

View Janet Eileen Starkenburg's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/16/2026

Linda Louise Zander

Linda Louise (Vevag) Zander of Lynden passed away on Jan. 7, 2026, at the Hospice House in Bellingham. She was born on Nov. 5, 1940, in Bellingham, to Carl and Glennis (Falk) Vevag, the eldest of their five children.

After graduating from Meridian High School in 1958, she attended Western Washington University and College of Business and Economics while working for a dentist. She later graduated from Whatcom Community College.

Linda married Raymond Harrison Zander on March 14, 1959, in Whatcom County. They first operated a dairy farm in Deming and later in the Sumas and Lynden areas.

Altogether, Ray and Linda raised seven children—Robert, Tami, Chris, Donald, Cody, Shane Hathaway, and Michele (Zander) Mironchuk.

Linda and Ray belonged to the Washington Farm Bureau, Whatcom County Farm Bureau, Goshen Grange, Northwest Dairymen’s Association, and Washington State Dairymen’s Federation. Linda served as president and legislative chairperson of the Whatcom County Farm Bureau, and in early 1980, she and Ray joined 30 other U.S. farmers and equipment dealers on a trip to Bulgaria. Linda and Ray attended Goshen Community Church.

She and Ray were lifelong Republicans. In 1978, Linda served as a freeholder helping to write a home rule charter for Whatcom County. She ran unsuccessfully in 1978 and 1980 for 40th state legislative district representative, sought a Whatcom County Council seat in 1983, and then won a position on the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission in 1985.

Linda was preceded in death in 2020 by Ray, her husband of 61 years; her son Cody in 2019; and her sister Beverly Leonard in 2024.

She is survived by five children, Robert (Kristy) Zander of Everson, Tami Zander of Bellingham, Chris Zander of Sumas, Donald Zander, and Michele Mironchuk of Blaine; sisters Dolores C. Olwell and Dorothy V. Leslie, both of Snohomish; brother Edward C. Vevag of Bellingham; five grandchildren; and a half dozen great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 6th at 1 PM at the Lakeside Cemetery (2402 Pangborn Rd, Lynden), where she will be buried next to her husband. A reception will follow at Laurel Grange (6172 Guide Meridian, Lynden).

View Linda Louise Zander's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/16/2026

Frederick C. Thompson Jr.

Frederick C. “Fred” Thompson, Jr., passed away at his home in Ferndale, Washington, on January 10, 2026, at the age of 84.

Fred was born on January 4, 1942, in Sacramento, California, to Frederick C. Thompson, Sr. and Mary Thompson. An only child, he spent his early years in California and, after graduating from high school, served a short time in the U.S. Army. He later attended Sacramento State for two years.

In the mid-1960s, Fred moved to San Francisco, where he worked at Cost Plus World Market. It was there that he met Cathleen “Cathy” Carter in 1966. They were married in 1967 and began their life together in Marin County. Fred and Cathy welcomed two children, Jessica in 1968 and Ian in 1971.

After they were married, Fred began developing the exceptional building skills that would define his career while working at the Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. There, he worked under the guidance of an outstanding master craftsman from the former USSR, where precision and exacting standards were essential - an influence that shaped Fred’s lifelong commitment to quality and doing things right.

Outside of work, Fred was adventurous and loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping in Yosemite, hiking off the beaten path, and beach camping trips with a close group of longtime college friends spent skin diving and collecting abalone - experiences that brought him great joy and lasting friendships.

In 1975, the family relocated to Bellingham, Washington, where Fred raised his family and built a respected career in the construction and cabinetry trades. He owned and operated Bayco, a business known for fine craftsmanship, attention to detail, and integrity. His work included medical interiors, cabinet installation, custom home construction, and projects at St. Joseph Hospital. Fred was highly regarded throughout the community as a true perfectionist who took great pride in his work.

After closing his cabinet shop, Fred found a new passion inspired by steamboats. He joined the local steamboat enthusiast group and purchased a small vessel named Feeble from Gordon Sullivan. During retirement, Fred focused his building skills on steamboats, enjoying many days steam boating around Puget Sound and Lake Whatcom with fellow steamers - combining his love of craftsmanship, history, and community.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Jessica, in 1997.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cathy Thompson; his son, Ian Thompson; numerous extended family members and friends; and his cherished cat, Lizzy.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Westford Funeral Home, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred’s memory to the Whatcom Humane Society.

View Frederick C. Thompson Jr.'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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