Obituary

John A. Lalonde, age 78, passed away at home on Dec. 5, 2017. One of six children, John was born in Bellingham on Sep. 10, 1939 to Bernard and Kathleen Lalonde. He attended Assumption Catholic School and Church. John spent much of his time there as a dedicated member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. A proud veteran, John served in the US Army. John enjoyed his time employed with the WA State Highway Dept., where he started as an engineer helping with the completion of I-5 and the construction of Old Fairhaven Parkway. Later he moved into maintenance, spending many long hours plowing snow and sanding icy roads. Working in this capacity, his concern for public safety was unmeasurable. It was at the Highway Dept. that he and Bunny Mallahan formed a life-long friendship. After 28 years with the Highway Dept., John and his son Joe went on to start Pioneer Tree Service. He loved climbing and trimming trees and continued to do so until age 70. John also loved playing baseball. When he was young, spring and summer days would often find him watching the Bells play at Battersby Field. Throughout his entire life, John maintained a special place in his heart for those less fortunate, and was always ready to help when and wherever he could. This extended even to the local raccoons, deer, and neighborhood cats. Right up to his passing, John continued to support the Light House Mission. John is preceded in death by his brother Jim and sister Jean. He is survived by his wife Ann, brothers Joe AKA Mike, Jerry, & Hugh, son Joe, daughters Patty, Janice, Marion & Renee, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces & nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lighthouse Mission (PO Box 548 Bellingham, WA 98227). Please share memories at wordpress-271002-1416095.cloudwaysapps.com.