William "Bill" Converse

William (Bill) James Converse, age 88, of Bellingham, WA, passed away peacefully at Summit Place Assisted Living facility on Friday, January 12, 2024. He was born October 9, 1935 in Bellingham to Albert Converse and Josephine Koloski.

Bill joined the US National Guard in 1952 and was honorably discharged in 1953, at which time he joined the US Air Force as a mechanic and was honorably discharged in 1957. Following his military service, he had several jobs. He worked for Boeing and then the Seattle Police Department as an officer in Seattle. He then moved to Bellingham and worked at Uniflite (United Boat Builders) for many years. He then became a successful car salesman and eventually an RV salesman, after which he retired.

Bill married Carol Yount on July 25, 1975 in Bellingham. Bill and Carol were married for 40 years. Bill and Carol were very socially active in the Bellingham Golf & Country Club, Bellingham Yacht Club, Elks Club, Gyro International, and the Nor’westers RV Club. Together they enjoyed snowbirding in their RV in Arizona and California for many years. Bill was also very active in Bellingham’s American Legion Post 7.

Bill is survived by his two sons Thomas (Tom) and Theodore (Ted) Converse, his stepdaughter Elizabeth (Beth) Chien, his granddaughter Catherine Chien (husband Curtis Barr), his great-granddaughter Stella Barr, and many loving relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 7th at 1:00pm at American Legion Post 7, 1688 W. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham, WA. Reception following.