Obituary

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of I. Mardelle Davison, aged 96, who left this world peacefully with her family by her side, on February 14, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington. Born on October 21, 1928, Marde was a beacon of love, creativity, and family devotion that illuminated the lives of everyone who knew her.

Marde was the cherished daughter of Lester Bullene and Leone L. (Brehmer) Bullene. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald J. Davison, her mother Leone (Brehmer) Pakusich, her stepfather John Pakusich, her brother Richard Bullene, sister-in-law Betty Bullene, and her sister Leone Bullene. Marde is survived by her four children: Sherry Young, Brad Davison (Suzanne), and twins Lynn Davison (Sue) and Lori (Davison) Dodson (Dave). She leaves behind a legacy of love in her ten beloved grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.

In 1950, she married Raymond E. Young, welcoming her firstborn, Sherry the following year. However, it was her marriage to Donald J. Davison on February 18, 1959, that truly filled her life with joy. Together, they welcomed their sons, Brad, Lynn and daughter, Lori.

Marde’s life was marked by a deep love for her family and a passion for creativity. She was known as the biggest Elvis fan, a passion that led her, along with her husband, mother, brother and sister-in-law, on a memorable journey in their motor home to Graceland in the early 80’s. Her love for music and performance shone brightly during the 80’s and 90’s, where she spent countless hours at the Bellingham Dance Studio, delighting audiences across Whatcom County with her tap-dancing performances.

An incredibly talented seamstress, Marde could often be found behind her sewing machine, lovingly creating clothes for her children, grandchildren, and the dolls she and her mother would make together. She adored crafting dolls and pottery during the ceramic classes they shared. Her hobbies extended to cooking, crocheting, astrology, puzzles, cards, and a delightful collection of Barbies. Marde had a particular talent for making holidays special, especially Christmas.  She enjoyed baking whimsical birthday cakes in the shape of beloved animals or characters for her children and grandchildren.

In her earlier years, Marde worked as a beautician, generously giving her children and grandchildren perms and the latest hairdos. Later, she became a beloved florist, founding the family-operated “Flower Basket” on top of Yew St. Rd with her husband. Her floral arrangements were not only beautiful but memorable, leaving an indelible mark on weddings and funerals throughout the community.

Her beautiful blue eyes, infectious smile, and hearty laugh made her a beloved figure in the lives of many. Her family was her world, and she devoted herself to making each occasion memorable, filling their lives with warmth and love.

As we bid farewell to our mother, grandmother and friend, let us hold onto the love she instilled in our hearts. May she rest in love and peace, forever remembered for her beautiful spirit and a life well lived. The legacy of love she leaves behind will continue to guide us on our own life journeys.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at PeaceHealth Hospice and North Cascades for the loving care given to Marde. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any remembrances be made to the PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice House or the North Cascades Health and Rehabilitation Center.