Carol Ann Bullen

Carol Ann Bullen, age 84, passed away peacefully on February 28th, 2026, in Bellingham, WA. Carol or “Corky” a loving nickname given to her by her father and mother, Oscar (Rap) and Clarice (Adkinson) Rapelyea. Carol was born on September 9th, 1941, in San Diego, CA. The Rapelyea’s moved to Bellingham in 1943 to be with relatives while “Rap” was overseas during World War II with the United States Navy. After the war Carol and family moved almost every year reporting to Rap’s orders from the Navy. Carol attended Aurora College in Aurora, Illinois and found herself living in one place for her longest duration yet of 4 years. Carol was very proud of her time in Aurora and made lifelong friendships she cherished very much. After college, Carol moved to Whittier, CA. It was then she began her teaching career with the Tustin School District and met the love of her life. It was1970 when Carol married that love, Donald E. Bullen, who was also a teacher with the Tustin School District. In 1982 Carol and Don moved to Seattle, , where Don had the opportunity to work in sales for a Yacht company. Upon moving to Seattle (Alki Beach) Carol went to work for a 1st Interstate Bank as a Mortgage Loan Officer. Carol and Don built their dream home on Camano Island in 1995. They enjoyed their new home until 2000 when they moved to Bellingham to be closer to medical facilities when Don was diagnosed with cancer. At this time Carol went to work for S.P.I.E. as an Administrative Assistant. Carol spoke often of the friends she made there, often referring to them as family. She retired in 2007 to help care for Don. Don passed away March 20th,2008. Carol then moved closer to town to be near friends and family. Carol was loved immensely by friends and family. Many who will miss that birthday card that would include the always open invitation to be treated to a Fairhaven tour and lunch on her. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Clarice Rapelyea, her husband, Donald Bullen, brother Alfred D. Rapelyea II and stepdaughter Dawn Mullen. She is survived by her sister Marian Pontious (Poncho), her stepson Brian Bullen, her sister-in-law Eleanor Rapelyea, her son-in-law James Mullen, and her nephews Richard Kirkland, Jason Rapelyea and Alfred D. Rapelyea III. She is also survived by numerous cousins and lifelong friends.

Carol Ann Bullen

September 9, 1941 - February 28, 2026