Obituary

Dwayne Massey, 82, was welcomed into the arms of his heavenly Father on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Hospice House in Bellingham, where he received compassionate care during his battle with cancer.

Born on September 12, 1942, in Bellingham, Dwayne was the son of Ross and Evelyn Massey and graduated from Nooksack Valley High School in 1960.

As the oldest of six siblings—Ron Massey (MaryAnn, both deceased), Maureen Massey (Jeff), Kim Massey (Allison), Lance Massey (Janell), and Denise Smith (Jeff)—he cherished the unwavering support of his family throughout his life.

In 1963, Dwayne married Joyce Waite from Mission, BC, and they moved to Port Angeles, where he worked as a Digester Cook at Rayonier Mill for 32 years. Together, they raised their children, Deanna and Greg, fostering a love for sports, coaching Little League baseball, camping trips, motorcycle racing, and family gatherings. Sadly, Joyce passed away from cancer in 1985.

Dwayne later discovered a passion for skiing with many trips to the mountains. In June 1988, he married Carolee (Jarvis) Tieman. When Rayonier Mill closed in 1997, they quickly moved to Lake Samish in Whatcom County.

In 1997, Dwayne enrolled at Bellingham Technical School, earning an associate in applied science in Fisheries Technology with pride in his 4.0 GPA. He went on to work for Skagit Fisheries until his retirement in 2008. Dwayne enjoyed keeping busy at their Lake Samish property, cutting and chopping wood, and ensuring the woodpiles were always stocked. His passions included fishing, skiing, reading, trips to Montana, and weekends spent with his grandchildren, family and friends around the firepit.

Remembered as a gentle giant, Dwayne’s generous heart and kindness touched the lives of many. Dwayne loved to laugh and enjoyed telling a story or one might even say spinning a yarn.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Carolee; daughter Deanna (Dean) Paulin; son Greg; grandson Max; granddaughter Ally (Luke); stepson Buzz Tieman; stepdaughter Crissy (Mike) Impero; granddaughter Brooke; and extended family, including Aloy and Pete Pien.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Hospice House for creating a comforting home away from home for Dwayne. In his memory, donations may be made to Hospice House of Bellingham.

You are invited to share your memories of Dwayne on Saturday, November 2nd, at 2:00 PM at Greenacres Chapel, 5700 Northwest Drive, Ferndale, WA 98248