Westford Funeral Home & Cremation

Westford Funeral Home & Cremation Westford Funeral Home & Cremation is a family owned funeral provider in Bellingham, Washington.

Jake L. Smith, Jr.Jake Smith, age 86, passed away at his home in Bellingham on Friday, December 26, 2025. He was born in...
12/30/2025

Jake L. Smith, Jr.

Jake Smith, age 86, passed away at his home in Bellingham on Friday, December 26, 2025. He was born in Bellingham to Jacob Ladd Smith Sr., and Charlotte (Roth) Smith on June 13, 1939.

Jake attended Campus School, Lakeside High School in Seattle, and graduated from Bellingham High School in 1957. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Washington and a law degree from Willamette University. While attending Willamette, he met Gayle E. Emerson. They were married on August 24, 1963, in Portland, Oregon, and soon returned to Bellingham. Jake practiced law in Bellingham and eventually opened a solo practice in Lynden and served as the City Attorney of Sumas. Jake and Gayle were active members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Bellingham where he served on the Vestry for many years. Jake was also a founding member of the Whatcom North Rotary Club including serving as a past president, and was a Paul Harris Fellow.

He enjoyed spending summers on Orcas Island at the family cabins, fishing in British Columbia, taking ski trips, and watching the UW Huskies, the Sonics, the Seahawks, and the Mariners. Jake was a loving grandfather to his five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Aaron L. Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Gayle E. Smith; daughter Trish Ehl, her husband Darrell, and their daughters Taylor (husband, Bret) and Megan (husband, Gus); son Kory Smith, his wife Krissie and their children Naomi, Gage and Gus; sister Marguerite Olson; and many loving relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Monday, January 12, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham. A reception will follow.

Memorial donations can be made to Whatcom County North Rotary.

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One year of Rainbow Bridge 🌈We were honored to be a sponsor of Rainbow Bridge’s animal-assisted therapy program - and on...
12/24/2025

One year of Rainbow Bridge 🌈

We were honored to be a sponsor of Rainbow Bridge’s animal-assisted therapy program - and one year later, the impact has been extraordinary.

Hospice visits
Support for grieving children
Healing experiences for bereaved families

These moments of connection have meant the world to families during an incredibly difficult time. This program brings comfort, compassion, and unexpected joy when it’s needed most.

Thank you, Rainbow Bridge! 🌈

If you’d like to learn more about Rainbow Bridge or support their work:
https://www.animalsasnaturaltherapy.org/rainbow-bridge/

Bettelou "Bette" EricksenBettelou Ericksen passed to her Heavenly Home on December 17, 2025, after a full life of 88 yea...
12/22/2025

Bettelou "Bette" Ericksen

Bettelou Ericksen passed to her Heavenly Home on December 17, 2025, after a full life of 88 years well lived. She is reunited in Heaven with her husband, Reverend Leonard Ericksen, and her youngest son, Doug, both of whom preceded her in this passage. She is survived by son David (his wife Nancy, and their children Scott and Sarah, Jared, Ryan and Holly, and Callie), son Don (his wife Sara, and their children Ingrid and Tucker, Leif and Danielle, and Kirsti), and daughter-in-law Tasha (and her children Elsa and Addi).

Bette was born to Bob and Hazel Macdonald in Shelton, Washington on August 19, 1937. She later moved to Port Angeles, Washington where she grew up along with her older sister Barb and her younger brother Mike. After completing high school, she ventured off to Pacific Lutheran College (now PLU) where she graduated with a degree in English Education in 1959. During her college years, Bette continued her already flourishing passion for forensic debate bringing home national championships.

While at Pacific Lutheran, Bette crossed paths with Len Ericksen who would become her life partner in ministry, family, and travel for decades to come. After brief stints in Minnesota and Montana, a combination of good fortune and God’s plan led them to Bellingham in 1967 where they teamed together to minister and shepherd a growing flock at Central Lutheran Church. She made great contributions, both in easily visible ways and, at times, behind the scenes, to the flourishing ministry at Central Lutheran. Bette also reached beyond Central Lutheran, providing leadership with a six-year term as the regional president for the American Lutheran Church Women (ALCW).

Sons David and Don were already on the team at the time of the move to Bellingham. Doug was soon added to complete the “Three D-s,” which became Bette’s greatest focus and pride. Her family was her driving purpose in the 1970s and 1980s. She was a fiercely loyal sports mom – probably before that was even a thing. She provided tireless support of academic pursuits. The collective number of uniforms washed, games attended, and papers typed was well into the thousands.

Bette was a schoolteacher before her full-worktime focus became her family and Central Lutheran Church. As the demands of full-time motherhood decreased, she was able to re-engage as a teacher. She then became the facilities manager for Whatcom County for 13 years. She found great satisfaction in the Whatcom County position. She often commented that the workforce reminded her of the blue-collar, hard-working approach to life of her father, Bob Macdonald.

After completing this later-in-life return to the workforce, Bette returned to the dual focus of working with Len in ministry roles and an unwavering focus on family. A new family focus emerged – an ever-growing crew of grandchildren became one of her greatest sources of pride and a top priority. Life had changed a bit, so this endeavor became an ongoing circuit between Washington, Montana, and California. She finished her decades long journey of ministry with Len by playing a role supervising summer staff at Glacier National Park, working for A Christian Ministries in the National Parks program. This era was also filled with her passion for travel. In addition to the grandchildren circuit, she brought Len along for the cruises she loved so much.

With eight decades of going hard accomplished, the more recent years centered around life on the farm in Ferndale. The role of grandma stayed central in her life. She greatly enjoyed leading Bible studies and socializing with old friends from Central Lutheran Church. She spent time supporting the Republican Party in Whatcom County. Her favorite days were when Mount Baker was in full display. She still made it to as many athletic, youth agriculture, and drama performance events for grandkids as possible. The pride was still strong.

Bette has passed to a place where, in the end, she knew she belonged. In the last days, she called it “going home.” She leaves behind a legacy represented by family and friends whose lives she touched in many ways.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church (119 Texas St., Bellingham) with a reception following.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to A Christian Ministry in the National Parks at https://acmnp.com/donate/online-donation/.

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Robert H. HealyRobert Higby Healy, a retired prosecutor best known for his intellect and courtroom command in Detroit du...
12/16/2025

Robert H. Healy

Robert Higby Healy, a retired prosecutor best known for his intellect and courtroom command in Detroit during the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, died on December 10, 2025 in Bellingham, Washington. He was 92.

Born in Rochester, New York, in 1933, Robert dedicated his life to the protection and care of others—a calling that spanned raucous courtrooms, an active household, and the quiet homes of hospice patients.

Robert’s life was built on a foundation of rigorous education and service. A graduate of The Lawrenceville School and Yale University, he served in the U.S. Army before earning an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan and a J.D. from the Detroit College of Law. Admitted to the State Bar of Michigan in 1964, he applied his sharp mind in every role he undertook.

For decades, Robert made his home in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, where he raised his children with his first wife, Kay Carse, and distinguished himself in law enforcement. As a Wayne County prosecutor and U.S. Attorney, he confronted narcotics traffickers and murderers. Robert co-founded a specialized homicide squad within the Detroit Police Department and served as Chief Trial Attorney for the Wayne County Organized Crime Task Force.

Upon retiring in 1994, he began a new chapter with his wife, Josephine O’Brien Healy. They relocated to the quiet beauty of Port Hadlock, Washington, and in 2001, settled in Bellingham to welcome their first grandchildren. Retirement did not end his drive to serve; he became a Guardian Ad Litem for at-risk children and volunteered with hospice.

Above all, Robert was the anchor of a large, blended family. He was a devoted husband and a father who offered equal measures of guidance and support to all his children.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Josephine; his children, Julia Philbrick Healy and Robert Carse Healy; and his stepchildren, whom he championed and loved, Fenton McCreery Remick, Elisabeth Lewis Remick, Jerome Hosmer Remick, and Charlotte Bouvier Paulus. He also leaves behind three grandchildren who inherited his curiosity: Wren Syre Healy, Ann Syre Healy, and Terrence Donald Charlie.

Robert will be laid to rest at a private service at Bayview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Whatcom Humane Society and Whatcom Hospice Foundation.

Please share your favorite memories in his online guestbook below.

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Robert "Bob" Stevenson, Jr.Robert “Bob” Stevenson, Jr., of Bellingham, Washington, passed away peacefully at his home on...
12/16/2025

Robert "Bob" Stevenson, Jr.

Robert “Bob” Stevenson, Jr., of Bellingham, Washington, passed away peacefully at his home on December 11, 2025, at the age of 79.

Bob was born on March 31, 1946, in Bellingham, Washington, to Robert and Doretta (Sullivan). He was raised in the community he loved, attending Bellingham High School before earning a degree in Civil Engineering from Skagit Community College.

Shortly after marrying Linda, Bob proudly answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force in 1966. He served honorably during the Vietnam War and was stationed at U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield. He was honorably discharged on December 9, 1969, having earned several military commendations, including the Vietnam Service Medal. Bob carried great pride in his service throughout his life.

After returning home, Bob worked briefly for the Washington State Department of Transportation before dedicating the remainder of his career to the lumber industry in Snohomish County. Known for his strong work ethic and quiet determination, Bob took great pride in providing for his loved ones.

In his younger years, Bob enjoyed hunting and fishing trips with friends - less for the sport and more for the camaraderie and time spent together, especially with his son, Rob. After retirement, Bob devoted himself fully to his family and community. He was always ready to lend a hand, whether helping with projects, volunteering his time for Eagle Scout projects, and never missed a chance to support his grandsons - whether at birthdays, soccer and football games, wrestling matches, or cross country meets. Later came graduations and wedding celebrations, each milestone filling him with endless pride.

Becoming a great-grandfather brought Bob his greatest joy. His great-grandchildren were the light of his life. To his great-grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Papa”, “Poppy”, and “Great Grandpa,” titles he wore with pride and love. Following the passing of his wife, Betty, Bob moved to Sudden Valley to be closer to his siblings and son, where he found a true sense of community. He was known for his kindness and generosity, helping neighbors and cherishing time with his great-grandchildren - especially their Thursday after school golf cart adventures to the local library and special outings that became treasured traditions.

Bob’s family was everything to him. Those who knew him will remember his quiet strength, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the way he always ended phone conversations and text messages with a heartfelt “I love you.”

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Doretta Stevenson; his wife, Betty Stevenson; and his brother, Randall Stevenson.

He is lovingly survived by his children, Tracey (Brian) Watson, Rob (Heather) Stevenson, and Krista (Steve) Bunkowske; his sister, Terri (Pat) Buckley; six grandsons, Tyler (Rachel) Watson, Samuel Watson, Joshua Watson, Riley (Karina) Stevenson, Randy (Yessenia) Stevenson, and Rorey Stevenson; nine great-grandchildren, Daniel, Olivia, Skylar, Adelynn, Thiago, Elijah, Camdyn, Caelynn, and Camila; along with many cherished relatives and lifelong friends.

Bob’s legacy lives on in the love he gave, the family he cherished, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and steady presence.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Bayview Cemetery in Bellingham. A celebration of life will follow at the Sudden Valley Dance Barn (8 Barn View Dr, Bellingham). Light refreshments and appetizers will be served.

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Thomas "Tom" Edward OlsenThomas “Tom” Edward Olsen, age 77, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, with his wife an...
12/10/2025

Thomas "Tom" Edward Olsen

Thomas “Tom” Edward Olsen, age 77, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, with his wife and daughters by his side.

Born on May 10, 1948, in Bellingham, Washington to Mary Vanderhage and Oswald Olsen, Tom was a lifelong resident of Whatcom County, where he grew up surrounded by the community he cherished.

A 1966 graduate of Bellingham High School, Tom went on to serve proudly in the United States Army. He later married the love of his life, Marty (Zender) Olsen, and together they shared 55 wonderful years, creating a lifetime of memories and raising two daughters.

Family was at the heart of everything Tom did. He called his mother every single day, and his brother and sister were not just family, they were his closest friends. The deep bond they shared shaped his loyalty, compassion, and the way he loved others.

Tom spent many years working at Georgia Pacific, where he cherished the work and the friendships he formed. He was known for his humor, camaraderie, and the countless memories created with coworkers through practical jokes and shared laughter. He was also a proud member of the Whatcom 4-Wheelers and Whatcom County Search and Rescue with many people whom became lifelong friends.

Tom touched the lives of everyone he met. He loved making people happy through his cooking, his humor, and his generous spirit. He also loved treasure-hunting at thrift stores, experimenting in the kitchen, and especially spending time with family at his and his wife’s property on the Skagit River. Camping was his idea of the perfect vacation, and he treasured every moment spent outdoors with those he loved.

Tom was preceded in death and now reunited with his mother, Mary Vanderhage; his brother, Larry Olsen; and his sister and brother-in-law, Bonnie and Jeff Smith.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Marty; daughters, Kristin Nguyen (Linh) and Kori Olsen (Aric Smathers); and his adored grandchildren, Kohl, Jayden, Talia, and Kaylin.

Tom’s quiet strength, warm humor, and deep love for life will be forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Westford Funeral Home, 1301 Broadway, Bellingham, WA. A reception will follow at American Legion Post 7, 1688 W. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham, WA.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The American Legion Post 7, 1688 W. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham, WA 98225.

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Barbara J. SullivanBarbara Sullivan, age 83, passed away peacefully, in her home, after a short illness on December 3, 2...
12/05/2025

Barbara J. Sullivan

Barbara Sullivan, age 83, passed away peacefully, in her home, after a short illness on December 3, 2025.

Barb was born on April 27, 1942, to parents John and Trudy Peters. She attended and graduated from Lynden High School in 1960. She retired from Larson Gross after 50 years, where she made many lifelong friends.

In 1963, she met the love of her life, Richard "Dick" Sullivan. They were married two years later on July 24, 1965 at St. John's Lutheran Church. Soon after, they purchased the farm where Barb grew up, a place that became home for the next 55 years and the heart of countless memories.

Barb was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who found her greatest joy in time spent with family. She will be remembered for being warm and welcoming to anyone who entered her home. She loved hosting and baking treats to share. A birthday or anniversary never went by without a card, text, or email. She loved others well.

Barb was preceded in death by her husband in September 2024, whom she lovingly cared for into his final days in his battle with Alzheimer’s.

She is survived by her children: Kristine (Steve) Tjoelker and their children, Trent Tjoelker, Kazia (Ben) VanderPol; Kelley (Barry) DeZeeuw and their children, Rachel (Joe) Crape, and Lance (Makenna) DeZeeuw; and Tim (Belinda) Sullivan and their son, Carson Sullivan; five great-grandchildren, Kellen, Sadie and Sam Crape, and Brody and Kyla DeZeeuw; sister, Vonnie (Danny) Fitzgerald; brother Larry (Judi) Peters; brother-in-law, Terry (Judy) Sullivan; sister-in-law, Sharon Maness; and good friend and neighbor, Kathy Miller.

A private graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Lynden, where Barb will be laid to rest. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Cancer Society.

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Alice Louise RietmanAlice Louise Rietman, age 90, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington...
12/04/2025

Alice Louise Rietman

Alice Louise Rietman, age 90, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington.

Alice was born on October 2, 1935, in Bellingham to Ted and Edna (Carson) Soderquist. On February 26, 1954, she married the love of her life, Floyd Rietman, at First Baptist Church in Bellingham. Together they shared nearly 65 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and community.

Alice devoted her early years to raising her family as a homemaker. Later in life, she returned to the workforce, serving as a receptionist in a medical office, where she enjoyed connecting with patients and coworkers.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Rietman; her brother, Fred Soderquist; and her parents, Ted and Edna Soderquist.

Alice is survived by her children Randy (Mandy) Rietman, Steve (Sandi) Rietman, and Lisa Boyles; grandchildren, Stephanie (Tim) Butorac and Aaron Rietman; great-grandchildren, Mila and Henry Butorac; and her sister, Betty Marks.

She will be laid to rest at a private family gathering at Ten Mile Cemetery in Lynden. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Bellingham or Whatcom Hospice.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Spring Creek and Whatcom Hospice for their compassionate support.

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Ralph H. Rinne, MDRalph Henry Rinne, age 101, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at home in his beloved com...
11/26/2025

Ralph H. Rinne, MD

Ralph Henry Rinne, age 101, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at home in his beloved community of Bellingham, Washington, where he had made his life with his loving wife, Eleanor, and family. Born February 26, 1924, in Higginsville, Missouri, to Edward H. Rinne and Lillie A. Rinne, he graduated from Higginsville High School where he was on the football team and played the trombone in his high school band as well as the Higginsville City marching band. Growing up during the Great Depression, he often recounted fond memories and stories of his youth working on the local farms, helping his dad and grandpa in construction, and having his own paper route. He always said these years were rich beyond measure with family and faith even though they were difficult.

Due to WWII and the Korean War, the following years of school involved the Navy. During WWII, the Navy took over Westminster College, in Fulton, Missouri, where he was attending and he made the decision to join up, finishing his pre-med as a corpsman. He then was offered a full scholarship to Vanderbilt University for medical school but, ultimately, chose to go to St. Louis University as it was closer to home and family. Upon graduation in 1948 and during his internship at Kansas City General Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital, he met the love of his life, Eleanor Grove, who was working as an RN, and they married in 1949. In 1953, as a Lieutenant JG in the Navy Reserve and in residency at Kansas City General with two young children, Bruce and Michelle, he was called to duty at Long Beach, CA, where he deployed to Incheon, Korea for his obligatory service time to the Navy. He served as a surgeon on hospital ship USS Consolation whose mission was in support of the 1st Marine Division. Following his discharge in 1954 and further training, the family moved to Bellingham in 1956.

The following years were devoted to raising their four children and working as a Board Certified General and Thoracic Surgeon at a time when there were three hospitals in Whatcom County and limited hands to do the work. He took a keen interest in medical care delivery in his community, devoting countless hours of his personal time to various committees and boards advocating for quality community medical care, as well as philanthropic pursuits for the hospital and Western Washington University. He was an avid fisherman, boater, a fabulous dancer, and snow skied up into his 80s. In March of 2000, after a notable career performing over 20,000 surgeries, he retired and turned to woodworking, making furniture and clocks for his children and grandchildren from the Eastern Black Walnut which grew on Eleanor’s family homestead farm in Indiana.

He was a member of St. James Presbyterian Church and Rotary Club of Bellingham. He served on the Western Washington University Foundation Board where he and Eleanor established the Ralph and Eleanor Rinne Family Premedical Scholarship Fund. He was past Chairman and member of the board of directors of Whatcom Medical Bureau and Founding Director of the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital Foundation. He served as Chief of Staff at St. Luke Hospital, Chief of Staff at St. Joseph Hospital, and Surgical Department Chair at St. Joseph and St. Luke Hospitals.

The last living member of his birth family and his medical school class, he was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor; his parents, Edward and Lillie; and his siblings, Anna Marie Rinne, Bill Rinne, and Marvin Rinne.

He is survived by his son, Bruce Rinne (Becky); daughters, Michelle Amos, Rhonda Williams (Ken), and Lisa Schwartz (Ivan); grandchildren, David Rinne, Scott Rinne, Kelsie Savoy, Christena Unseth, Miranda Peele, Amy Leenstra, Walker VanWingerden, and Lauren VanWingerden; seven, almost eight, great-grandchildren; and extended relatives back in Missouri.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers and medical professionals who cared for him so lovingly. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ralph and Eleanor Rinne Family Premedical Scholarship Fund at Western Washington University, Rotary Club of Bellingham, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, and the Whatcom Humane Society.

A funeral service will be held at 11am on Thursday, Dec. 11, at St. James Presbyterian (910 14th St. Bellingham) followed by a graveside at Bayview Cemetery. A reception will follow at 1pm at Bellingham Yacht Club (2625 S Harbor Loop Dr.).

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William "W***y" MilesWilliam “W***y” Miles, born January 20, 1940, to Raymond and Wilda (Wood) Miles, passed away on Nov...
11/25/2025

William "W***y" Miles

William “W***y” Miles, born January 20, 1940, to Raymond and Wilda (Wood) Miles, passed away on November 20, 2025. He is survived by sons Roger Miles and Randy (April) Miles, grandsons Billy Miles and Shelby (Keirstin) Miles, great-granddaughter Norah Miles, and sisters Judy (Jim) Collins and Jeannie (Jim) Puteney. He was predeceased by his parents, his brothers Mike Miles and Gerald Miles, and sister-in-law Shirley Miles.

W***y loved cars – hot rods, race cars, and working on cars. He was still drag racing until the age of 80. He was a lifetime member of the Mount Baker Motorcycle Club and retired from Puget Power as an equipment operator after nearly 30 years.

W***y had a special place in his heart for his grandsons and little Norah, his great-granddaughter.

We want to give a special thank you to all the members of PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice for the loving, kind, and professional care that they provided for W***y.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 11th at 1:00 p.m. at Westford Funeral Home (1301 Broadway, Bellingham, WA), with a reception following.

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Delbert H. BosmanDelbert Henry Bosman of Bellingham, Washington, passed away peacefully at home on November 20, 2025, af...
11/22/2025

Delbert H. Bosman

Delbert Henry Bosman of Bellingham, Washington, passed away peacefully at home on November 20, 2025, after an extended illness. During Del’s final weeks, he was surrounded by loved ones and close friends whom he cherished deeply.

Del was born on October 1, 1937, in Everson, Washington to Henry Bosman and Lena (VanderHouwen) Bosman, later raised on the family farm on the Van D**e Road in Lynden, Washington.

Del graduated from Lynden Christian High School in 1956. He had already started working at Hinton Oldsmobile in Lynden during his junior year, and after graduating he worked as a mechanic at Meridian Equipment. Seeing a future in diesel mechanics, he took a two-year correspondence course in this field from Interstate Training. This led to a 15-year career at NC Machinery, the local Caterpillar dealer, starting in the paint shop, then working as a diesel mechanic, field sales for parts, and his eventual calling in heavy equipment sales. Del used this foundation and training to move to Lynnwood Equipment, selling a variety of heavy equipment such as asphalt paving equipment, rock crushing equipment, equipment for the logging business, and many other machines. His next stop was in management as part owner of Millbrook Equipment - John Deere dealership. His final stop was starting Bakerview Equipment with his son, Rick, and lifelong friends Bob and Peggy Hinton, finally selling the business and retiring in 1999.

Del and the love of his life, Pat, grew up in Lynden together on neighboring farms, attending the same Christian Reformed Church and Christian schools. The two were married on September 4, 1959, enjoying 66 years of marriage. Not long after marrying, the two moved to Mount Vernon, Washington, and eventually settled in Bellingham where they have called their current house their home since 1968.

Del had a love of life obvious to anyone who came near him. He was always quick to laugh and joke, offer counsel and assistance to any in need, and his faith in the Lord was the cornerstone of the incredible life he lived. His warm and inviting smile was available to all, but none experienced it more frequently than the family he loved so much. He was passionate about his family; always being there for his three children, seven grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. In their retired years, Del and Pat traveled on the road with friends in their motor home and spent many seasons at their place in Tucson, Arizona.

Del had a lifetime of service to his faith and community. A lifetime member of the Bellingham Christian Reformed Church (now Hope in Christ Church), he served as an elder, deacon, and Sunday School teacher. Del’s passion for charity extended to three decades on the Board of Directors (including as President) of the Lighthouse Mission in Bellingham, also serving for a while as President of the Foundation Board.

Del also had passion for all things with engines in them. For many decades he was with the Bellingham Antique Automobile Restorers Club and the Cascade Two Cylinder Club; he also attended every Deming Log Show since its inception until his final one this year. Del also served on the board for the Diesel Technology program at Bellingham Technical College. One could always find Del at the Annual Threshing Bee (later the “Puget Sound Antique Tractor Show” and “Vintage Farming Days”) at Berthusen Park in Lynden displaying his treasured antique machines.

Del was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Lena Bosman. He is survived by his wife Patricia Pilon Bosman, son Randy (Barbara) Bosman, and their children Brandon (Lyndsay) and Brittany (Jacob); son Rick (Denise) Bosman, and their children Drew (Rockell) and Erica (Jordan); daughter Susan (Joseph) Ihlan, and their sons Christopher (Naomi), David, and Matthew; sister Sheryl (Ray) Boersema and their children Jeff (Jana) and Amy (Bryan); sister Marlae (Doug) Veldkamp and their son Mark. He is also survived by 11 great-grandchildren: Makenzie, Kyah, Lance, Levi, Luca, Decker, Jaxon, Weston, Everly, Elodie, and Peter.

Memorials may be made to Lighthouse Mission Ministries, PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice, or Hope in Christ Church.

Viewing for Delbert will take place from 1:30pm-4:00pm on Monday, December 1, at Westford Funeral Home (1301 Broadway, Bellingham).

Graveside service will be held at 11:30am on Tuesday, December 2, at Greenwood Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life service at Hope in Christ Church (710 East Sunset Dr., Bellingham) at 2:00pm. You can view the service via livestream here - https://www.youtube.com//featured

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