Merastella Therese Bentley

Merastella Therese Bentley, age 71, of Bellingham, Washington, passed away Friday, May 10, 2024. She was born on April 25, 1953, in Watervliet, New York, to the late Walter and Audrey (Maxfield) Bentley. 

Merastella, known for her adventurous spirit and caring nature, was a trailblazer in her own right. After marrying Alexander Doolittle, she embarked on a journey across the United States, including traveling by hopping freight trains. She was a pioneer as one of the first women to work in the machining industry in Seattle. Her career as a Nurse LPN included extensive work in nursing homes, alongside her role as a machinist. 

In her leisure time, Merastella found joy in painting pictures of birds, indulging in a variety of music genres, and immersing herself in books as an avid reader. Her love for the arts and literature reflected her vibrant personality. 

Merastella is survived by her son, Solzion I. Bentley, daughter-in-law Cara-Dawn Rasmussen, grandchildren Rand Bentley and Aurora Bentley, and brother Ron Bentley. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alexander Doolittle, parents Walter and Audrey Bentley, sister Ellen Bentley, and brother-in-law Ed Dimmer. 

A Graveside Service to honor Merastella's life will be held at Enterprise Cemetery Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM. 

Her legacy of compassion, resilience, and creativity will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her.