Robert J. "Bob" Hughes

Bob Hughes, age 92, passed away at Hospice House in Bellingham, WA on May 18, 2021 after a full and wondrous life. Born to Edward and Alphia Hughes on September 28, 1928. At thirteen, he got his first job working for a lumber mill on Blakely Island, where he spent the best summer of his life. During the Korean war he served aboard submarines including the USS Tunny. Bob received a Master’s degree in Physical Education and spent many years teaching in Oakland, but he was first and foremost a fisherman. Over the many years, he owned and operated a number of fishing vessels, including gill-netters, tenders and processing ships, including the West One, with its storied conclusion (see, The National Inquirer for more details). From him, many of us have learned to read the water, plan ahead, remain calm under pressure, and work hard. Thank you Bob. Bob was preceded in death by his daughter Julie (Hughes) Aydelotte and his former wife Alene Tomich. Bob is survived by his wife Donnie Fleming, son Jeff Hayward-Hughes (Cathy), grandchildren Jack, Bristol, Ty (Ceairra) and Lexy (Morgan), great-grandchildren Julie and Nathan. A graveside service will be held at Bayview Cemetery at 2 PM on Friday, July 23rd. A memorial reception will follow at Jeff and Cathy’s home, 1147 Deer Creek Lane in Bellingham from 3 to 6 PM. You may share memories with the family at www.westfordfuneralhome.com .