Anton Alton Neyens, age 94, joined his Heavenly Father on Oct. 28, 2018.
Anton was born Feb. 16, 1924 in Whitcomb, Washington, to Jacob and Mildred Neyens. He was the third of six boys and moved to Whatcom County in 1930. Anton graduated from Bellingham High School, completing an automotive apprenticeship and working as a mechanic at Campbell Dodge in Bellingham. He met and then married “his angel,” Esther Nordquist, on June 16, 1948 and they moved to Everson, where he joined Mades Motors, later becoming one of the owners.
Anton was a fixture of the community, serving on the City Council and joining Whatcom Fire District 1, where he served as the fire chief for 30 years. He was the transportation supervisor for the Bellingham School District for 17 years, and then in his retirement sold school buses for the Thomas Bus Company all over the Northwest.
In appreciation of his long service to Everson, on his 90th birthday the mayor presented Anton with a certificate proclaiming “Anton Neyens Day.”
Anton accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at age 16 and had a deep and abiding faith. He was actively involved in the local church throughout his life, and was an example to many. His faith was evident to all who knew him.
Anton was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Eugene, Gordon, Kenneth and Darryl.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Esther; brother Rogan (Irene); sons Stephen (Rhona), David (Laurie) and Richard; as well as seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
You are invited to join family and friends for visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31, in Gillies Funeral Home. A private graveside service will be held, with a memorial service for friends and family at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, in Christ Fellowship, 1208 E. Main St., Everson.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either Christ Fellowship Church or Whatcom Hospice Foundation, 3001 Squalicum Pkwy. Suite 11, Bellingham, WA 98225.
The family thanks the wonderful staff of Whatcom County Hospice as well as Christian Health Care Center of Lynden. A special note of appreciation to his wonderful caregiver, Shone.
You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guest book at www.GilliesFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
