Westford Funeral Home & Cremation

09/24/2025

A question we get asked often is "What made you want to be a funeral director?". Here, Ally Tippery shares her start.

09/16/2025

Barbara June Anderson

Barbara June (Loomer) Anderson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, at Mt. Baker Care Center in Bellingham, Washington. She was 94.

Born on April 19, 1931, at St. Luke’s General Hospital, Barbara was the eldest child of Kenneth Laverne and Ellen Bernice (Knutsen) Loomer. From an early age she looked after her younger siblings, Janice, Margie, and Bud, with a mix of responsibility and humor. She attended Sunnyland and North Bellingham Grade Schools, Alexander Jr. High, and graduated from Ferndale High School in 1949, where she served as Student Body Treasurer, excelled in typing and bookkeeping, and played nearly every sport available.

Barbara began nursing studies at St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing. Though her training was interrupted by an emergency appendectomy and later tonsil surgery, she carried the lessons of care and resilience throughout her life.

Faith and community were at the center of Barbara’s life. Baptized, confirmed, and married at Central Lutheran Church, she and her husband Robert “Bob” Anderson later became longtime members of Christ the Servant Lutheran Church. Barbara and Bob had known each other since seventh grade, and their 60-year marriage was built on friendship, devotion, and plenty of adventure.

They raised their son Cary in Whatcom County, where Barbara worked for Dr. Hugh Trimingham, Kelstrup Realty, and in admissions at the brand-new St. Joseph Emergency Department. She was also the heart of her home: a talented seamstress, rug ho**er, gardener, and cook whose lefse and holiday meals were legendary. She loved to open her doors to family and friends, ensuring no one ever left hungry.

Barbara and Bob shared a spirit of adventure. Together they built a rustic log cabin on Lake Bonaparte near Kamloops, British Columbia, where summers were filled with fishing, laughter, and fellowship. Many of their happiest memories were shared there with dear friends Bob and Jennette Stevens, with whom they spent countless days at the lake. Later, they traveled by RV through Mexico and spent 13 winters in Mesa, Arizona. During those years she especially loved attending Mariners’ spring training games in Peoria. Though she enjoyed cheering for the Seahawks, the Mariners were always her favorite team.

She was preceded in death by her husband Bob; sisters, Janice Thibodeau and Margie Griffith; and brother, Kenneth “Bud” Loomer. She is survived by her son, Cary (Janie) Anderson; grandchildren Tyler (Caron) Anderson, Trevor Anderson (Desiree), and Amy (Eric) Ellenz; and four great-grandchildren, Maya, Chase, Cash, and Barrett.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 24, at Christ the Servant Lutheran Church (2600 Lakeway Dr. Bellingham). You can view the service via livestream here.

Memorials may be made to Christ the Servant Lutheran Church or Whatcom Hospice Foundation.

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09/13/2025

Emil Hecht

Obituary for Robert Emil Hecht, MD Born September 3, 1941 – Passed Away September 12, 2025

Emil Hecht, MD, respected and beloved physician, merrymaker, adventurer, community leader and activist, passed away on September 12, 2025 at the age of 84, surrounded by family. He was born on September 3, 1941 in Seattle, WA to Dr. Morris and Louise Hecht. Dr. Hecht dedicated his life to the care of others, leaving an indelible legacy of optimism, compassion, excellence, and mentorship in the medical field and the communities he loved. There are truly no words encompassing enough to describe his joie de vivre, and the impact he leaves on the lives of everyone who knew him.

Dr. Hecht graduated from Bellingham High School, the University of Washington, and the University of Washington Medical School (Medical Honor Society). He served in the US Naval Aerospace Medical Institute as a Flight Surgeon and achieved the rank of Commander in the US Coast Guard. He went on to complete his surgical training at UCSF Medical Center in San Francisco, CA. In 1971, he married his true love and best friend, Tannia Rubiano and their lifetime of travel, adventures and happiness together began.

In 1975, Dr. Hecht founded Bellingham ENT, following in the family tradition of medicine. He was a past assistant professor at UW Medical School, adjunct professor at WWU, officer with NorthWest Academy of Otolaryngology, chairman of the department of surgery at St. Joseph’s Hospital and a board member and chair of numerous local and international boards of directors. He was a leader and member of Whatcom County Medical Society and Washington State Medical Society, as well as past president of Congregation Beth Israel, a Smiles International volunteer physician and co-founder (alongside Tannia) of ComuniCabo Speech Therapy Foundation for children with cleft palate in Los Cabos, Mexico.

Outside of his medical career, Dr. Hecht was a proud Jew, a sailor and fisherman, a skier and lover of the outdoors, an avid traveler, and everyone’s best friend. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and his family was the center of his life. Dr. Hecht is survived by his beloved wife, Tannia, children Mia (Todd) Ellis and Dr. Avram (Dr. Corinne) Hecht, grandchildren Josie, Vivian and Audrey Ellis and Eloise and Ansel Hecht, his nieces Megan Cole and Sara (Phil) Balston and great-nieces, Savannah and Chloe Balston, as well as a large extended family across the US and Canada. He cherished the Bellingham community where he lived nearly all his life, as well as his second home in San Jose del Cabo and the lively and generous community of friends he and Tannia found there.

Dr. Hecht’s contributions to the field of medicine and to the lives of those he touched will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of service and professionalism that will continue to inspire.

A funeral service to honor Dr. Hecht will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, September 15, 2025 at Congregation Beth Israel, 751 San Juan Blvd. Bellingham, WA. Committal will follow at Beth Israel Cemetery, followed by a reception at Congregation Beth Israel.

The service in the sanctuary will be available via Zoom. The graveside service will not be streamed. Here is the link to access the live stream: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88616250602?pwd=3GLw4Z0phvtA1Z4KWV2FCdre7o7cG6.1

Honoring Emil’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Comunicabo Foundation and/or the Gartner Hecht Scholarship Fund at Congregation Beth Israel.

Dr. Hecht will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his memory will live on through every optimistic thought, moment of joy, toast and hearty laugh that you share with the world.

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09/03/2025

Donna Jefferis

Donna Jefferis, age 78, passed away peacefully at home in Bellingham, WA on August 13, 2025. Donna was born on December 2, 1946, to Donald & Gayle (Travis) Williams in San Francisco, CA. She graduated from Park Rose High School in 1965 and then attended Portland State University.

Donna met her future husband on a blind date at the Diamond Lake Resort in Diamond Lake, OR. Even though the date got off to a rough start, Donna knew that they were meant to be together and on September 8, 1967, Donna married Gary Jefferis. They spent almost 50 years together before Gary’s passing. Together they loved to ballroom dance, play golf, travel (especially to Mexico), and most of all spend time with their grandchildren.

Donna was preceded in death by her husband Gary, parents Donald and Gayle Williams, brother Brian Williams, and brothers-in-law Steven Jefferis and Larry Wright.

She is survived by her daughter Angela (husband Ryan) King, and their children Taylor, Connor, and Katelynn “Kiki,” son Christopher (wife Jennifer) Jefferis and their children, Zakary and Brooke.

Donna will be deeply missed by her family, and all of those who were fortunate to know her.

At Donna’s request there will be no services.

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08/30/2025

Today is National Grief Awareness Day.

Grief touches every life, yet it’s often something we carry quietly. Today is an invitation to bring it into the light - to acknowledge that loss is part of love, and to show compassion for those who are grieving.

At Westford, we’re reminded of this every day as we sit with families around the table hearing their stories, looking at old photos together, and finding meaningful ways to honor a life. These moments remind us that grief isn’t something to fix, but something to share and carry together.

If you’ve lost someone dear, may you find moments of peace and connection. If you know someone who is grieving, may you offer them patience and kindness.

Together, as a community, we can help ensure no one feels they must walk through grief in silence.

08/29/2025

Michael Scott Mehler

Michael Scott Mehler, age 63, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Ferndale, WA on August 26, 2025.

Mike was born to parents Harold and Darlene Mehler in Bellingham, WA on April 11, 1962. After graduating from Bellingham High School, he went to work at Georgia Pacific where both his dad and grandpa were employed. He later started his own business, M & M Construction & Painting, which he grew and proudly ran until his passing. Mike was one of the hardest workers out there and was always willing to help others out with his skills. His youngest son, Chad, who came on board working with his dad, and learning from him daily, became his righthand construction man. Many jobs were completed at the “friends and family” rate! He provided so many kids with summer jobs and opportunities for employment, and truly cared for all his employees and customers.

On March 10, 1986, Mike married the love of his life, Pamela Krueger (In March it would have been forty years!). Together they raised two beautiful young men and created a home where everyone feels welcome. He was so proud of his boys. To say that Mike was a family man is an understatement. He did everything for his family and was a true provider. He always wanted to be where his children were, and he and Pam took many kids going through tough times into their home and hearts. He was a second father and counselor to many – always with a listening ear, non-judgement, and a gift of knowing just the right words to say. However, he also knew how to have fun – hosting sleepovers and driving the kids to TP houses!

Mike had many passions, and all of them centered around family. He was a gifted musician, a love he learned from his dad. As a master drummer, he was a member of several local bands before playing for many years alongside his dad and friends in the infamous Bellingham band, The Bel-Aires. Many good times were created and memories made during their time together. Mike loved his dad and treasured their weekly Sunday morning breakfasts. Sports was another passion and he shared it with his boys as he coached them in both basketball and baseball from T-Ball through AAU. Countless coaching hours were spent as a volunteer, not only helping his own kids, but so many local athletes. The Ferndale community was so special to Mike and he was a continuous participant in tournaments with his sons, donor to any fundraiser, and mentor for FHS students wanting to job shadow.

He loved not only kids, but animals as well. Every dog knew he was on their side. The outdoors were a huge part of Mike’s life, and he could often be seen enjoying the Dunes in Oregon, fishing locally or in B.C. for his annual trip, or camping in their beautiful RV, always with family and friends, and always, always the willing driver!

Mike is preceded in death by his mother Darlene Mehler, half-sister Dori Parr, and brother Ricky Mehler. He is survived by his loving wife Pamela, son Cory and daughter-in-law Summer, son Chad, father Harold Mehler and wife Cindy, sister Sheri Folsom and husband Jim, step-brother Chris Hensel and wife Robyn, grandson Troy, granddaughter Millina, numerous nieces and nephews, and so many friends who also adored him dearly.

Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of an incredible human. He truly impacted the lives of everyone who knew him. He would do anything for anyone. His smile, his laugh, his words of wisdom, and his helping hand will be greatly missed. While he took every role in his life seriously, he most recently cherished that of “grandpa” to Troy and his newest grandchild, Milli, newly born in July. Truly gone too soon. Rest easy, dear Mike, and know that you are loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 14, 2025 at the Pioneer Pavilion center in Ferndale open house style from 2:00-5:00 pm. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Ferndale Youth Sports.

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08/29/2025

Frederick Palmer Lee

Lifetime Bellingham resident Frederick Palmer Lee, son of William "Cougar" Lee and Patricia (Rocke) Lee, passed away Aug 26, 2025. He is survived by his loving companion of 21 years, Sandi Weston, and many relatives and friends.

A service of remembrance will be held at Westford Funeral Home on Thursday, September 11th at 11 am. A reception will follow.

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08/19/2025

Jeffery Robert Hayward-Hughes

Jeffery Robert Hayward-Hughes of Bellingham, Washington, known to most as Jeff, passed away peacefully at the age of 68 on August 10, 2025.

Born September 12, 1956 in San Jose, California, Jeff spent his childhood moving between Northern California and the wild, windswept beauty of Lopez Island, Washington. He grew up with a sense of curiosity and adventure that would carry him through life.

At WWU, Jeff met Cathy, the love of his life. Together they worked fishing seasons in Alaska, traveled the world, and built a life rich in experiences before settling in Bellingham to raise their two children, Jack and Bristol.

Jeff’s life was full of motion and connection—he loved exploring new places, sharing long conversations with friends, listening to good music, and being surrounded by family. His beloved dogs, Sumi and Osa, were never far from his side.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy (Hayward); children, Jack and Bristol Hayward-Hughes; sister-in-law Chris Hayward; nieces and nephews Clarice Brown (kids Quinn and Foster), John Hayward-Mayhew, Tyler Aydelotte (kids Julie and Nathan), and Lexy Aydelotte, and his loyal dogs. He was preceded in death by his sister, Julie Aydelotte; mother, Alene Tomich; and father, Bob Hughes.

Jeff will be remembered for his boundless spirit, his kindness, and the way he made the world feel bigger and brighter for those who knew him.

We’d like to thank the incredible staff at Fred Hutch Cancer Center for this year of care and support. With their support, we were able to visit our favorite places and spend time with friends and family.

Please join us for Jeff’s party to celebrate, honor, and remember his life on Sunday, September 7, 2025 at 5:00pm at the Chuckanut Bay Distillery, Bellingham, WA. Because we are serving dinner, we ask you to RSVP here: https://partiful.com/e/Sjq79JvsmIWEAbgN3gNf

In lieu of flowers, please hug your dog or raise a glass in Jeff’s memory.

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08/19/2025

Nina Abi-Farah

Nina Abi-Farah, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, at the age of 72. Nina was born in 1952 in Damascus, Syria, to Hyatt and Rushdi Al-Jabi. Her early life was shaped by a deep love of languages, literature, music, and philosophy, passions she cultivated during her education at French Catholic schools. She fondly remembered traveling with her father throughout Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, especially the nights they spent camping together under the vast desert skies.

In her youth, Nina moved to Paris to live with her older brother, Farouk, and his family. It was in Paris that Nina’s professional career flourished. She joined the office of businessman Akram Ojjeh, where her gift for languages and diplomacy helped build relationships across Europe and the Middle East. It was also in Paris that she met the love of her life, Michel Abi-Farah. Their bond was instant, and they married a little over a year later, welcoming their daughter, Soraya, in 1981.

In 1987, Nina and Michel made Bellingham, Washington, their home. There, Nina poured her heart into creating a warm, loving space for her family, always surrounded by the support of Michel’s relatives, who embraced her as one of their own. In 1995, Nina was struck by a sudden illness that left her paralyzed. But in true Nina fashion, she defied all odds, never accepting defeat. With remarkable determination and strength, she relearned how to walk, a testament to her resilience and unyielding spirit.

Nina had a gift for making everything beautiful, whether through her joy in creating inviting spaces, her cooking, or the love she shared with everyone she knew. She adored her grandchildren and embraced her son-in-law as her own. After Michel’s passing in 2022, Nina carried on with the hope of their reunion in heaven, leaving a legacy of love, strength, and quiet grace.

Nina is survived by her daughter, Soraya, son-in-law, Kevin, grandchildren, Mischa and Luca, and her two brothers, Fawaz and Ossama Al-Jabi. She also leaves behind many loving relatives from the Abi-Farah and Boulos families.

A funeral service will be held at Westford Funeral Home on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 6:00 PM, with a reception to follow.

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08/13/2025

Douglas Manso Stuart

Douglas Manso Stuart, 84, passed away peacefully in Bellingham, Washington, on July 31, 2025, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was a longtime resident of Port Townsend, Washington, and had also lived in New York City, Redwood Shores, California, and other places throughout his adventurous life.

Doug attended The Lawrenceville School in New Jersey, where he valued his high school years and the friendships he made. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in classical music from Columbia University, followed by a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science from the University of Washington.

As a young man, Doug set out on the open seas, working as a deckhand on a ship bound for Africa. Soon after, he served four years in the United States Marine Corps. In the years that followed, his path was as varied and colorful as the man himself—driving a taxi through the bustling streets of New York City, lending a hand in a health food store, and eventually making his way west to Washington State.

For more than two decades, Doug worked as a laboratory technician at Jefferson General Hospital, where his steady hands and thoughtful nature left a lasting impression on colleagues and patients alike.

Outside of work, Doug pursued life with a deep and abiding passion for learning and the arts. He loved playing classical piano and accordion, singing hymns, practicing yoga, studying calculus and Japanese, and traveling the world. He was a devoted fan of the Seattle Mariners, a connoisseur of whole wheat bread, and never said no to a good glass of carrot juice.

Doug is survived by his son, Nathan, daughter-in-law, Natalie, and his beloved grandchildren, Evan, Lydia, and Samuel, who will carry forward his love for curiosity, music, and life’s simple pleasures.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the compassionate staff at Summit Place Assisted Living in Fairhaven and Whatcom Hospice for their dedicated care and kindness during Doug’s final chapter.

In honor of Doug, no formal service will be held. Instead, take a walk by the sea and remember a man who found beauty in both the grand adventures and the quiet moments in between.

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08/13/2025

Geraldine Bell

Geraldine Mae Bell, née Gorospe, age 70, passed away in Puyallup, WA, on August 11, 2025. Gery was born September 5, 1954, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Jose and Maria Gorospe. She is survived by her husband, Don Bell; her children, Bucky (Briana) Bell and Christian (Robert) Vargas; and her six grandchildren, Colton, Parker, and Cooper Bell, and Aundrea, Dayton, and Roxsy Vargas; as well as her seven siblings: Jackie de Leon, Maria Evans, Rachel Ereth, Jose Gorospe Jr., Everett Seven, Tommy Gorospe, and David Gorospe.

Gery was the bulwark next to Don at Bell & Bell PLLC. She provided a steadiness and consistency not often seen in managing an office’s day-to-day operations. More importantly, she was the rock on which Don, Bucky, and Christian could stand. She was an integral piece that contributed to the success of the Bell family, and in the last eighteen years, she extended that same love to her grandchildren, whom she adored.

From early on, Gery was the matriarchal head of the Gorospe family. Her faith in God was evidenced by the strength, generosity, and wisdom she provided to each member of the Gorospe clan. She was sought after for guidance, consulted on decisions, and looked to for leadership. While she will be missed by all, her three sisters will feel her absence in a profound manner. The four sisters’ bond was unbreakable and had an aura that was palpable. Numerous nieces and nephews also felt her presence and experienced her love. There was not a family member who did not recognize the significance of her status as the family matriarch.

A graveside service will be held at New Tacoma Cemetery, 9212 Chambers Creek Rd W, in Tacoma, at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, followed by a memorial service at New Hope Community Church, 18408 S Tapps Dr E, in Lake Tapps, at 11:30 a.m. A reception will follow at the church.

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08/12/2025

Jane Olsen

Jane Karen Olsen was born on August 10, 1946, to Walter and Marjory (Jacobson) Olsen. She passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, just shy of her 79th birthday.

Jane was a beloved sister to Kathleen Barry, Stanley Olsen, and Walter Olsen. She had a curious spirit and a deep appreciation for the world around her. A lifelong explorer at heart, Jane traveled extensively, finding joy and inspiration in the cultures, people, and places she encountered.

Known for her independence and quiet strength, Jane led a remarkable life marked by thoughtfulness, resilience, and an open heart. She will be remembered with love by her family and friends, and by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Please share your memories of Jane in the guestbook below.

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