Ronald D. Bennett, age 88, passed away June 11, 2023 at the Spokane Veteran’s Home with his family at his side. Born Feb. 12, 1935, Ron grew up in the tiny town of Mineral, IL and joined the Navy at age 17. After actively serving for 20 years, including both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, he settled in Bellingham where he met his wife of 50 years, Marilyn Means. Ron was very active in the community as he forged a career in real estate, serving as president of the American Legion, Navy League, and the Whatcom County board of realtors. However, Ron’s true passion was found in his family, especially his grandchildren and the great-grandchildren he got to know before Alzheimer’s began to take its toll. Ron is survived by his wife Marilyn (Means), son C J and wife Katie, grandchildren Tammy Brandvold (Jake), Jordan, Jeffrey, Kayla Clay (Chris), Jon (Nadia), Greta Harp (Adam), Aggie, soon to be eight great-grandchildren, and numerous family in Illinois. On Friday Aug. 4 at 2 p.m., a graveside service with military honors is planned at Woodlawn Cemetery in Ferndale. Immediately following will be a reception at Moles Greenacres, 5700 Northwest Drive, Ferndale. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.ALZ.org.
