Clayton "Bud" Milton Fassett

Clayton Milton Fassett, affectionately known as “Bud,” passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and friends on September 23, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington, at the age of 85. Born March 4, 1940, in Long Beach, California, Bud was the beloved son of Conner Milton Fassett and his stepmother, Lucille. His birth mother, Lou Ceil Margaret Lutes, tragically passed away when Bud was just over a year old, following the birth of his sister Janet. Bud was a devoted brother to Janet and stepbrother Leo Mitchell. Bud is survived by his loving wife, Brenda Anderson; his sons, Christopher Mark and Gregory Scott Fassett; his stepbrother Leo Mitchell; and his cherished grandchildren Kai, Ethan, Caitlyn, Ashley, and Clayton Matthew Fassett. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Janet. Part of a proud lineage, Bud represented the fourth generation of six consecutive “C.M.Fassetts,” beginning with Chester M. Fassett in 1853 and continuing today with his grandson, Clayton Matthew Fassett. From childhood, Clayton was known as “Buddy,” a nickname given to him by his father that followed him throughout his life. Friends and family simply knew him as Bud. Bud served his country with honor as a cryptologist in the U.S. Army. He remained a proud and patriotic veteran throughout his life. Following his service, he earned a degree in accounting from California State University at Long Beach and went on to a successful career, spending much of his professional life as payroll manager for the National Broadcasting Company, NBC. Bud was an accomplished runner who completed numerous marathons. He loved old cars, including his cherished 1959 Corvette that he sold to buy a family station wagon. His hobbies included an extensive coin and stamp collection, as well as his HAM radio license and talking to people from near and far using the HAM radio airwaves. When Bud’s boys were young, he purchased a small mountain cabin to create a place for family time, adventure, and memories that would last a lifetime. The cabin became a treasured retreat where the boys invited friends for snow days, fishing the lake, and exploring the nearby boulder fields. One of their fondest memories was when Bud would turn Lookout Drive, a steep road behind their cabin, into the ultimate bob-sledding run by carving out tracks and building jumps with his snow shovel. His sons cherish memories of him smiling and laughing as he rode down the hill on that same shovel. Chris and Greg now share this tradition with their own children at the family cabin, 45+ years later. Following retirement, he and Brenda moved to Sudden Valley in Bellingham, Washington, where they enjoyed more than three decades together in a home overlooking the 11th green of the Sudden Valley Golf Course, with Lake Whatcom and the mountains as their backdrop. During their time in Sudden Valley, Bud and Brenda shared a home with Brenda’s parents, Bernice and Gus. Brenda, Bernice, and Bud later became affectionately known as “the 3B’s,” and Bud and Bernice developed a special relationship filled with laughter, playful teasing, and a warm-hearted camaraderie that brightened daily life. Bud and Brenda also owned and operated the local Sudden Valley Post Office, where Bud’s warmth, humor, and people skills made him a beloved fixture of the community. He was a dedicated member and president of the Kiwanis Club, a tireless volunteer, and an enthusiastic participant in community life. Those who knew him recall his wonderful personality and generosity. Examples include walking to the local pizza parlor every morning for many years to preheat the pizza ovens so they would be warm when the shop opened and serving as the local Avon lady for several years to fill a need in the community. Acts like this reflected his giving spirit and lasting commitment to others. Above all, Bud was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family deeply. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the community he helped shape, and the generations of Fassetts who carry his name and memory forward. Brenda, Chris, and Greg wish to express our sincere gratitude for your friendship, love, and support of our dear Bud. We will forever be grateful for your love and friendship and appreciate you being a part of Bud’s life.

Clayton "Bud" Milton Fassett

March 4, 1940 - September 23, 2025