Obituary

Barbara Ellen Rauch, of Bellingham WA, passed away on April 24, 2023 at age 91. She was born to parents Gertrude and Hugo Wallin in Willmar Minnesota on March 10, 1932.

Barbara was the first woman school bus driver in Bellingham, and the only commander in the American Legion #7, an organization she loved being a part of. She loved working with schools and children, and in addition to bus driving also helped out in the kitchen as a cook for Alderwood and Sunnyland Elementary.

She loved bingo, baseball, casinos, traveling and camping. Most of all she loved her family and God, especially her numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Barbara will be remembered most for what a loving and attentive Mother and Grandmother she was.

Barbara is pre-deceased by her husband of 36 years, Art Rauch. She is survived by her four children, Marsha (Tony) Hanley, Cathy (Howard) Holmes, Diane Rauch, and Dale (Marcy) Rauch. Barbara also leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who all brought her so much joy.

There will be a viewing/visitation on May 4th, from 11-1pm in the chapel at Greenacres in Ferndale. A short memorial service in the chapel will begin at 1pm, followed by the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Home – Trinity Lutheran Church Bellingham Washington (trinitybellingham.org) or the Legion Riders Post 7 Bellingham (bellinghamlegion.com) (John Fassett Memorial)