Daryl Eugene "Gene" Billman

Daryl Eugene Billman passed away peacefully on June 19th, 2018 at Whatcom Hospice House just one month after the passing of his beloved wife, Nyla. Gene was born on December 5th, 1931 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Gene met his future wife Nyla through his school friend Allen who was Nyla’s brother. Gene was stationed at Keesler Air Force Base in 1951 and once he was settled, he sent for Nyla to join him by train and they were married once she arrived. They moved back to Whatcom County after having their daughter Gena and made their home in Ferndale.
Gene worked as a draftsman in Steel Fabrication and was known by friends as “Gene the Machine”. In his spare time, he enjoyed participating in different activities with his family. He was a member of the Whatcom Railroad Association model railroading club for many years and enjoyed sharing that hobby with his grandson Mitchell. He also both played and coached roller hockey during the years his daughter Gena was a figure skater. Gene had an incredible dry wit, keen intellect and gentle nature. Family pets (dogs in particular) always had a special affinity for “Papa” and they were instantly drawn to him. At nearly every family gathering, Gene could be found with a dog curled in his lap.
He was predeceased by his wife Nyla on May 20th, 2018 just three days before their 67th wedding anniversary. Gene is survived by his daughter Gena (Art) Longstreth, grandson Mitchell Longstreth, and granddaughter Stephanie Longstreth as well as Nyla’s extended family. Gene’s family would like to express their gratitude to Whatcom Hospice House for their compassionate care and, as such, memorials in memory of Gene may be made to them. Please share your memories of Gene with his family at www.westfordfuneralhome.com .