Ann Robbins

Born on October 16, 1946, in Bellingham, WA to Daniel and Betty Lou Robbins, Ann was raised at Agate Bay on Lake Whatcom with her three brothers, Rob, Dan and Charlie Robbins. After attending Bellingham High School and two years at Everett Junior College, she married Steve Bates and was fortunate to be a stay-at-home mom in Lynden. She had two children who she raised and dedicated her life to, Trent Bates and Teri Bates MacPhee. She was immensely proud of her children and was blessed with cherished grandchildren, who were the joy of her life. Being Nana was her “happy place” and where she truly shined.

Ann had more friends than anyone. Her life was dedicated to serving others and she was a caregiver to all. She prioritized her friends and family and was truly selfless in her deeds and acts of kindness.
The Robbins family were fortunate to have been given a family farm called Hama Hama on the Olympic Peninsula on Hood Canal. Located on the Hamma Hamma River, the family gathered there and spent many wonderful years visiting this piece of heaven and entertaining friends and family.

Ann was blessed to have so many friends her entire life. Each of her friend groups met monthly and they held incredibly special places in her heart. Her “Club” group met for over 40 years with ten members: Karen, Lydia, Bev B, Bev JG, Jo, Kaydeen, Bette, Teresa, and Sandy. These women knew how to create memories! Club often spent time at Hama Hama and were joined by Linda, Murph, Ginger, Denise, Gail, Nancy, Sandee, and Jill. These trips were characterized by walks on the beach, hikes, campfires, food, and drinks. The women shared their lives and MANY laughs. The “Goddess Group” from Lynden was comprised of Carol, Ann, Rose, Karlene, and Joye. “Lynden Lunch” group was Patsy, Peggy, Carole, and Kim. Ann’s “Walking Group” included Carole, Rochelle, Deb, Michelle, Karen, Lynne, and Judy.
Ann loved being a “nanny” for two very special families: the Hofers and Handzliks. She loved being allowed to join their families and love on their children: Mackenzie, Lincoln, Jaxon, Luke, and Elly. She was also caregiver to Fran.

Ann loved her friends and entertaining them in her home. The table settings were just as important as the food. Ann’s door was always open, and she loved hosting friends and family.
Ann was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Charlie, and her four-legged companion, Tucker.
Ann is survived by her son, Trent (Leesa) Bates of Roswell, NM; daughter, Teri (Dan) MacPhee of Bellingham; brothers, Rob Robbins of Lilliwaup and Dan (Kathy) Robbins of Bellingham; grandchildren, Wittney, Brooke, Zachary, Tyler, Grant, Madison, and Nicholas; nieces and nephews, Tyler, Blake, Spencer, Liz, Tammy, and DJ; Kathy Bates and Beth Bates of Seattle; and many special Hama Hama cousins and extended family.

Ann served on Loving Hearts in Lynden, Lynden PTA, Children’s Orthopedic Hospital Guild (now Children’s Hospital), Whatcom Hospice Foundation Board of Directors, and was a volunteer at the Whatcom Hospice House since 2010. Donations can be made to Whatcom Hospice Foundation in Ann’s name. ( https://whatcomhospice.org/donate-online/ )

A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Thursday, May 2nd at Cornwall Church, 4518 Northwest Dr. in Bellingham. A reception will follow at the Squalicum Boathouse, 2600 N. Harbor Loop.
In honor of Ann’s style, please wear plaid or checks. The service can be viewed livestream by clicking this link - https://cornwall.online.church/