Obituary

Lucy Rose Willett (Finkbonner), June 5, 1939-September 3, 2017, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family. Born to Richard and Lucy (Martin) Finkbonner, she was known to many as “Sis”. She was a member of Lummi Nation, born and raised in Whatcom County, living in Custer, Bellingham and most recently Sandy Point. She attended Lummi Day School, Custer, Ferndale, and Lynden High schools. Lucy met the love of her life, Chuck, at the Delta Grange in the winter of 1956, at a Custer dance with country western singer Loretta Lynn headlining. That first kiss in the 54 Olds Holiday 98 sealed the deal. They were married on April 1, 1958 in Coeur d’Alene, ID. Together they had 4 children and numerous foster kids.

They started Chuck and Lucy’s Fresh Fruit Stand on the Guide Meridian, which would operate for over 20 years. They planted fruit trees, raised cows, chickens, pigs, and many other animals. They traveled to many orchards in eastern Washington, and met many wonderful people along the way. Through the years she also worked at JC Penny, Ernst, Lummi Mini Mart. Lucy enjoyed walking the beaches, clam digging, reading, baking yummy breads, and preparing feasts for every holiday or family celebration. Christmas tradition was making enchiladas and tamales. If not in the kitchen, gardening was where you found her. She had the biggest green thumb and was the go to for any advice or to name “that” plant. Sewing was another hobby. Children’s clothes, Halloween costumes, or just mending a hole; she never turned down a project. Later in life, she cherished anything that involved the grandkids. Accepting overnighters (or longer) without hesitation, attending their school events, sewing pj’s or costumes, and always made sure there were cookies or other treats in the jar!

In retirement years, they enjoyed traveling to places such as San Francisco, Yellowstone, Colorado, Eastern Washington, and north to Kamloops. They always made a point to drive a route that included visiting aunts, uncles or friends. Lucy was preceded in death by her parents Lucy and Richard Finkbonner, sister Ruth “Toots”, and brothers Richard “Bronk” and Henry.

She is survived by the love of her life, Gordon “Chuck” Willett, sister Irene Jernigan (Jerry), children Gordon (Tami), Brenda (Dave), Richard (Jen), Ryan (Sarah), Pete, Adele, Lois, and George. She also leaves behind many grandchildren, numerous loving foster children, relatives and friends. Most of all, family came first. Lucy was a kind, loving, beautiful and caring person. The love and dedication to Chuck, her family and friends is for us all to learn from and live by. She will forever be missed.

Special thanks to the ALS Association and Hospice. In leiu of flowers, donations may be made to ALS, Hospice, or the charity of your choice. A reception will be held Lummi’s Wex’liem Community Building 2100 Lummi View Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226 on Saturday September 16, 2017 at 1:00 PM.