Obituary

Long time Bellingham resident, Mildred “Millie” Sophie Lind, age 93, passed away on January 20, 2023.  She was born March 25, 1929 on a fishing boat in Hoonah, Alaska to Fred Hanke and Sophie (Davis) Hanke.

Millie graduated from Bellingham High School in 1947 and married James “Jim” Lind on February 16, 1948.  They were married for 57 years before Jim’s passing in 2005.  Millie loved to travel and was always game for an adventure, even ziplining in Central America when she was 82 years old.  She loved anything outdoors…fishing, nature walks, trips to the zoo or just hanging out in her gardens. Her love and knowledge of wildlife, particularly birds, are some of her family’s favorite memories.

Millie is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim and her siblings Fred Hanke, Chuck Hanke, Karla Flynn and Rose Thilges.  She is survived by her brother, Jack Hanke of Kentucky. Her daughter, Susan (Steve) Hoidal, of Bellingham.  Her son, Richard (Vicki) Lind, of Buckley, WA.  Two grandsons, Matt (Lee) Hoidal and Chad Hoidal. Two great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  She will be remembered as strong, loving and feisty with a great sense of humor.  She was a joy to others and a fiercely loyal wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

Following a private graveside ceremony, there will be a celebration of life in the spring.