Obituary

Bellingham, WA: Nickee Anne Oaks: Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and a dear lifelong friend to so many.

Nickee passed away at home with her loving Husband Raymond Oaks by her side. She passed during the very early morning hours of Sunday, February 2nd, 2025, at 73 years of age.

Nickee was born on February 15, 1951, in Bellingham, Washington to Clifford Norris and Dolores Norris (MacDonald). Nickee was a lifelong resident of Whatcom County WA.

Nickee loved animals: She was brought up with, and around horses. She recalled riding bareback near and around her childhood home on Northwest Ave. after school got out for the day. Her favorite horses were Sugar Babe and Red. Her favorite cat was Abbey.

Nickee attended North Bellingham Elementary and later graduated from Ferndale High School with a 4.0 GPA. She was selected to be a FHS Cheerleader and while maintaining her GPA, and the demands of the Cheer Squad, she worked at “Bob’s Big Bun” hamburger joint in Ferndale to earn money.

Nickee told of driving her 1956 Chevrolet sedan she named “Crème Puff” (way too fast) through the corners on West Axton Rd. with her High School friends and the two family Boxer dogs in the car.

After High School, Nickee blessed The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office with her time, compassion and leadership for over 40 years. She served four elected Sheriffs and supervised the employees of the front office. She was also “The Glue” that kept the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office running smoothly. Nickee pretty much knew every employee, their spouses, their children and she could call each by name.

Nickee loved lounging around the pool at Crescent Bar, WA with dear friends and enjoyed an extended horseback ride through the Pasayten Wilderness (WA) area on her horses. She also enjoyed many trips to New York, Eastern Canada, and Civil War and Revolutionary War historical sites. She also visited Nantucket (MA) as well as a trips to Mexico and Scotland.

Nickee was a Woman whose beauty radiated both and out. She could instantly brighten any room she entered. Her infectious kindness and great sense oof humor drew people in, and while she never sought attention, she effortlessly made those around her feel special and welcome.

Nickee fought a long, hard and courageous battle against Corticobasal Syndrome. Her dedicated and devoted husband (Ray) always by her side, supporting her every need. Both of them (and others) hoping and praying for a cure.

Nickee was preceded in death by her Father, Clifford Norris, a very special grand niece Autumn Hanson and a very cherished and respected Brother in Law Joe Jorgenson.

She is survived by: Her Husband, Raymond Oaks, son Timothy Hughes II, daughter Kelli Crapser (Hughes). Nickee is also survived by her grandchildren: Brittany Gwinner and Nickee Gwinner and their children: Emrick Bennet, Asher Bennett, Westin Gwinner and Quinten Gwinner. She is also survived by her Mother, four sisters and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Nickee is a true Angel sent to this Earth and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.