James Albert Klander

James (Jim) Albert Klander, age 72, Of Bellingham passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at his home. Jim was a lifelong resident of Whatcom County, he attended Mount Baker High School and after graduating he joined the Navy. Jim returned to Bellingham after the Navy where he met and married Verylen Hilton. Jim and Verylen have 4 children, Sherry Klander (Heidi), Dennis Klander (Stacy), Dan Klander (Heather) and Dale Klander. Jim was an avid outdoors man and enjoyed hunting and fishing most of all. There were many weekends that he could be found sitting on the riverbank of the Nooksack River, with a worm and a Schmidt beer.

Jim retired from Wilders Construction and talked very fondly of his time there. Jim was a hard worker and made sure that every one of his children understood how important it was to give it your all.

Jim was Grandpa to Tyler, Alyssa, Ethan, Sam and Logan and he loved to share his coin collecting hobby. It was common for them to have a coin or two in their pockets when they left.

Jim was brother to Nona, Bob, Nadine, Rick and Mary and son to John and Elizabeth.

It is likely that Jim is now sitting on the riverbank with his brother Bob, fishing and drinking a warm beer.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held Sunday, June 1, 2014, 12:00 noon at 4136 Deming Road, Deming, WA 98244. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Whatcom County Hospice.