Westford Funeral Home & Cremation

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

Christina M. BakerBorn on March 6, 1959, in Hardin, MT, to parents Billy and Marianne (Gregory) Butts, Christina passed ...
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.

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Steven Romaine ApelesSteven Romaine Apeles passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early morning of January 10, 2026....
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.

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Janet Eileen StarkenburgJanet Starkenburg, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and resilient spirit, passed...
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.

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Linda Louise ZanderLinda Louise (Vevag) Zander of Lynden passed away on Jan. 7, 2026, at the Hospice House in Bellingham...
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).

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Frederick C. Thompson Jr.Frederick C. “Fred” Thompson, Jr., passed away at his home in Ferndale, Washington, on January ...
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.

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David "Lee" Burgess Sr.Lee passed away on January 4, 2026, at the age of 89 after a yearlong battle with acute myeloid l...
01/12/2026

David "Lee" Burgess Sr.

Lee passed away on January 4, 2026, at the age of 89 after a yearlong battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

He was born on February 28, 1936, to Clyde and Gladys Burgess and grew up on North Fork Road. Lee attended Mt. Baker High School, where he was involved in sports and FFA, and he kept many of those friendships until his death. After graduating, he married Darlene Joyce Barter on November 20, 1954, and they moved to Bellingham. They bought their home in Laurel on the Guide Meridian in 1957, where they raised their four children and many goats, horses, chickens, cows, and pigs. They were very involved in the community, including 4-H, water associations, Meridian School, and Assumption Catholic Church.

Darlene preceded him in death in 2006. Lee later married MaryAnn Zender, with whom he shared 18 years.

Lee worked for Lynden Transport, Inc. (LTI) for 46 years. After retirement, he continued to drive independently until 2012. He was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. As a Lynden Legend, his distinctive voice could be heard at LTI events or the local Dutch Treat sharing stories of the many years he spent as one of the original Alcan drivers.

Lee and Darlene hiked the Pacific Crest Trail and traveled extensively, including Korea, Russia, and Africa. They worked hard and played hard. They bought a house in Bouse, AZ to settle down and be snowbirds in 2005.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Darlene Burgess; brothers Bert and Robert; sister Janice Webster; granddaughter Amanda Reynolds; great-granddaughter Maya Peterson; and sons-in-law Dennis Reynolds and Mark Peacock.

Lee is survived by his wife, MaryAnn Burgess; his children, Debra Lee, Dave Burgess, Diane Peacock, and Dorene (Bob) Marvel; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; sister Judy Pefley; and sister-in-law Darlene Burgess. With his marriage to MaryAnn, Grampa Lee also won the hearts of her six children, spouses, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Lee will be laid to rest at Greenacres Memorial Park during a private family graveside service. A celebration of Lee’s life will be held on Sunday, March 1st at 2:00 PM at the Deming Log Show Museum (3295 Cedarville Rd, Bellingham).

The family would like to thank the wonderful and caring doctors and nurses at PeaceHealth Cancer Center and staff at Whatcom Hospice House.

Donations can be made in Lee’s name to PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice Foundation, or to your favorite charity.

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Jason M. de la VegaJason did not lose his battle to cancer. He fought strongly, courageously and with great tenacity unt...
01/12/2026

Jason M. de la Vega

Jason did not lose his battle to cancer. He fought strongly, courageously and with great tenacity until the Lord called him to rest from his valiant battle on January 9, 2026.

Jason Morato de la Vega - a loving son; a caring brother, a thoughtful grandson, nephew, cousin, relative, friend; a fierce warrior.

Born at Beale Air Force Base in Yuba City, California, on September 12, 1989, to Maritoni Morato and Norman de la Vega, Jason lived in California, the Philippines, and Montana before relocating to Bellingham, WA, at the age of 7. In 1999, Jason gained a stepfather, Fred Varang, with whom he shared a nurturing bond throughout his life.

Jason graduated from Bellingham High School in 2008 and excelled in track & field. He was independent minded and lived an adventurous life as a young adult. He loved being in the company of his friends. An avid book reader, a guitar enthusiast, a passionate gamer, and a lover of cats. Jason was known to many as a smart, funny, kind, polite and easy-going guy. He worked at the T-Mobile Call Center for several years and was an excellent employee until he had to stop working.

Jason lived a meaningful life during his cancer journey and did not let it define him. He did not dwell on his illness and continued to live his life fully, without self-pity. He met and fell in love with Lynsie, who was also battling cancer at the time. Despite his own health struggles, Jason fully dedicated his time to caring for Lynsie until she passed six months after they met. Jason was truly selfless and showed unconditional love for his family and to those he cared for.

Jason was preceded in death by his grandparents, Romeo Morato, Nestor de la Vega, and Maura Manini; his partner, Lynsie Conradi (Hirschkorn); and his dear cat, Balrog.

Jason is survived by his mother, Maritoni Varang; fathers, Fred Varang and Norman de la Vega; brother, Kevin de la Vega; sister, Tiana Varang; and his beloved cat, Gandalf. He is also survived by his grandparents, Luzminda Lazaro Morato, Peggy Axelson Baze, and Gary and Darlene Varang, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and relatives in the Philippines, Canada, and the United States.

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled at 11:00 a.m. on January 22, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church (1110 14th St, Bellingham). A reception will follow immediately after the Mass in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation to the Pheo Para Alliance for cancer research. Our family would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to all those who were involved in Jason’s care.

Rest in peace, our dearest Jason. You are forever in our hearts.

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Winnifred Evelyn SmithOur beloved Winnifred Evelyn (Harris) Smith joined the love of her life, her husband of many years...
01/07/2026

Winnifred Evelyn Smith

Our beloved Winnifred Evelyn (Harris) Smith joined the love of her life, her husband of many years, Fred Macrae Smith, on December 17, 2025, when she passed away at the age of 103.

She leaves behind two sons, Monty Smith and Craig Smith, and Craig’s wife, Dana (Henken) Smith. She was the grandmother of four: two grandsons by Monty, Shawn and Jeff Smith, and a grandson, Samuel, and a granddaughter, Sara, by Craig. She also leaves behind two great-grandsons by Shawn: Luca and Enzo. Throughout her life, she was the true matriarch of our family, an amazing wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and friend to so many.

Born in a hospital in Everson, WA, on October 1, 1922, she was the only daughter of Richard and Easter Harris of Abbotsford Prairie, B.C. Winnie, who was always such a beautiful woman, was crowned May Queen in the summer of 1936, the same year as Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee! While she had no siblings, she was the delight of her aunties, especially Inez, who brought her down to Bellingham following Winnie’s high school graduation, where she met Fred Smith. They both fell head over heels in love and became husband and wife, making Bellingham their home.

The mother of two boys, Craig and Monty, she and Fred always worked as an amazing team, with her staying home and raising their children while Fred worked tirelessly in the Alaska Arctic for their family. Much later, after their boys were grown, Fred’s job took him to American Samoa and Truk and Winnie happily joined him on this new adventure. A tiny woman, she was known to fearlessly drive a two-ton construction truck into town to join her new friends for games of bridge, something she continued to play well throughout her life.

She loved doting on her family, dancing, traveling, and entertaining! Her soirées at their Bellingham home at both Gooseberry Point and in Desert Hot Springs were legendary! How they fit over 50 guests on that small carport at Rainbow Spas is beyond me, but they did, and people flocked to them!

Her adventurous spirit shone through on all of her and Fred’s trips, including one in which they literally traveled the world after Fred retired from Haskell Corporation. She loved square dancing in the county, ballroom dancing at the Elks and Bellingham Country Club, and later, dancing at the Bellingham Senior Center. Most of all, she will be remembered for her ready smile, her welcoming spirit, her incredible grace, and her love for her family and friends. Winnie, we were all so lucky to have had you in our lives. We love you and will always miss you.

Please join us for a celebration of her life on Tuesday, January 13th beginning at 3:00 pm, at The Bellingham Senior Activity Center (315 Halleck Street, Bellingham).

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Bellingham Senior Activity Center.

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Patricia "Pat" E. CrosbyPat passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025 at the age of 103.Pat was born on July 30, 1922 ...
01/07/2026

Patricia "Pat" E. Crosby

Pat passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025 at the age of 103.

Pat was born on July 30, 1922 in Ferndale, WA. She was a longtime resident of Anacortes, WA, returning to the Bellingham area after her husband passed away. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a great-great-grandmother.

Pat was married to her husband, Leslie P. Crosby, for 68 years. Together they built a life filled with love, partnership, and family that brought them great joy. They were lifelong members of St. Mary Parish in Anacortes. Pat worked at First Federal Savings and Loan in Anacortes for several years. Pat and Les spent many weeks over the years sailing the boats that Leslie P. built. Also, they traveled all around the states in their fifth wheel after retirement.

Pat’s hobbies and interests included knitting (she could knit with her eyes closed!), sewing, gardening, jigsaw puzzles, camping, and spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her son, Les Crosby (Kay) of Bellingham; her daughter, Kathy Ditchkus of Round Hill, VA; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 22 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Pat will be remembered for her warm spirit, her wit, and her deep love for her family and community.

Services were held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ferndale. She was laid to rest at Fernhill Cemetery in Anacortes.

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Barbara J. GalleyBarbara J. Galley passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, at the age of 83.Barbara was born on Augus...
01/06/2026

Barbara J. Galley

Barbara J. Galley passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, at the age of 83.

Barbara was born on August 10, 1942, in Aitkin, Minnesota, to Lyman and Frances (Moritz) Glidden. She later made her home in Bellingham, Washington.

A caregiver at heart, she worked in nursing home and in healthcare settings her whole. In 2001, Barbara married Ronald “Ron” Lee Galley. They shared many happy years together until Ron’s passing in November 2025. Barbara worked as a cleaner and aide for Lake Whatcom Treatment Center, where Ron also worked as a cook. They shared many adventures over the years, enjoying cruises around the world, RV camping trips, fishing, and cheering on the Seahawks and Mariners.

Barbara is survived by her children, Donald Seek, Daniel Seek (Angela), and John Seek (Wanda); as well as beloved grandchildren and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ron; and sons, Gerald Seek and Anthony Seek.

A heartfelt thank you to the staff at Highland Health and Rehab and Whatcom Hospice for their loving care of Barb over the last few months.

She will be laid to rest at Greenacres Memorial Park in Ferndale.

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Lorene Joanne (Gudmundson) MeckLorene passed peacefully at home on December 26, 2025, with her three children by her sid...
01/01/2026

Lorene Joanne (Gudmundson) Meck

Lorene passed peacefully at home on December 26, 2025, with her three children by her side.

Lorene was born on April 8, 1938, to Emil Theodore and Olive Dagmar (Breidford) Gudmundson in Blaine, Washington. The youngest of seven children, she grew up in a large, loving family that endured much during her younger years. Lorene told many stories of growing up in the Gudmundson household-of the places they lived, what the family experienced, and the love they all shared. She was raised on farms and had fond memories of those years, helping with the animals and gardens, and even having a pet chicken! She adored and admired her parents for all the love they instilled within their family and missed them all very much.

Lorene graduated from Blaine High School in 1956. After graduation she met and married Charles Miller in 1957. Tragedy struck after only two months of marriage, when Charles passed away in an accident. Lorene moved to Seattle not long after with her older siblings and lived there for a few years before returning to Blaine. In 1963, she met Edward Meck, who was stationed at Blaine Air Force Base as a medic. Ed asked Emil for permission to marry Lorene and he happily gave his blessing. In February 1964 they eloped to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho to be married, followed by a honeymoon in Reno, Nevada, where Lorene got Elvis’ autograph! Their son Kenneth was born in February of 1965, and their first daughter, Carol, in June 1966. They purchased their first home in 1966 on Harborview Road in Birch Bay to raise their kids. In 1968, the Air Force transferred Ed to Eglin Air Force Base in Florida where they lived for two years. After leaving Florida, the Meck’s drove up to the Pennsylvania/New York area where Edward was raised and met his side of the family. They then returned home to Birch Bay and in February 1972, second daughter Barbara was born. In 1974 Ed and Lorene sold the Birch Bay home and moved the family into a larger, newer home in Ferndale. There they lived for the next 41 years, raising their children and spending time with their grandchildren. Lorene stayed home to raise their kids until she returned to work part time in the late 1970s selling Avon. She then went on to work at her sister’s gift shop in Blaine and then to a gift store at the Bellis Fair Mall, rising to store manager until her retirement. In their retirement years, Lorene and Ed spent considerable time with the Gudmundson families, their children and grandchildren and enjoyed traveling to sunny destinations. Edward passed away in October of 2016 at the age of 87.

Lorene is survived by her son, Kenneth Meck (Kristy); daughters, Carol Schusster (Rick) and Barbara Bloch (Mike), grandchildren, Ashley Boesen (Tyler), Erika Dorland (Gilbert) and Logan Meck (fiancée, Fayth Buck), great-grandchildren Jackson and Zoey Roberts, Gilbert and Gage Dorland and Dakota and Margo Boesen, sister-in-law Anita Gudmundson, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews who she adored. She is preceded in death by husband Edward Meck, parents Emil and Olive Gudmundson, sisters Esther Pedersen, June Vaughn, NormaJean Bakarich, Margaret Rutherford, Theo Hull and brother Theodore “Bud” Gudmundson. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sibling, aunt and friend.

A private family graveside service will be at Hillsdale Cemetery, Blaine. A memorial service will at 1pm on Saturday, February 28, at the Free Church Unitarian (1218 Harrison Ave., Blaine). A reception will follow.

In memory of Lorene, donations may be made to Free Church Unitarian (1218 Harrison Ave., Blaine, WA 98230) or Whatcom Hospice.

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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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