Stephen Coates

“Spread love everywhere. Let no one come to you without leaving happier.” This is how Stephen lived his life!
Stephen was born and raised in Ferndale, attending schools in Ferndale and Bellingham. He enlisted in the Navy upon graduating from high school, partly from duty to county and partly because he wanted to see the world.
Most people knew Stephen through his handmade chocolate business, Coates Chocolates, but Stephen had many other careers in his life. He was also a GIA certified gemologist, a master woodworker and furniture refinisher, a property manager, a bread baker on Orcas Island, a jewelry courier traveling to Sri Lanka and Thailand, and a very proud veteran who supported the local Navy League chapter.
When asked why he was always so nice in his life, he replied, “Why not be nice?” as if there was no other choice or way to be!
Stephen won acclaim for his hand made chocolates and peanut brittle on multiple continents but always managed to stay humble – a lesson for us all! Stephen believed in giving back; to his church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, to his community, and to others.
Stephen was predeceased by his wife, Elona; and stepdaughter, Robbie. He is survived by his brother, Fred (Jeb); his step-daughters, Donna and Julie; and his step-grandchildren, family, and friends.
A memorial service for Stephen is planned for April 27 at 2:00pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 2117 Walnut Street Bellingham, WA.
Donations in Stephen’s name may be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, or to Eden Hospice of Bellingham.