Obituary of Sally Ann Bishop

Sally Ann Bishop passed away peacefully on January 9, 2022. She was 88 years old. Born in Bellingham on November 27, 1933, to Alda and Reidar Rasmussen, she was the third generation of the Rasmussen family in Whatcom County. She grew up, with her two sisters, on the Smith Road in the home her father and grandfather built. Sally returned there to raise her own family of three children with her husband, Al Bethke, where she had a large vegetable garden and they raised beef for their own use. The Bethke children have fond memories of the childhood they shared there. She graduated from Meridian High School in 1951 and began working in downtown Bellingham at the National Bank of Commerce of Seattle in 1953. During her 35 year career in banking, she volunteered as a fashion model for many community charity events. Sally retired in 1988 and became a dedicated grandmother as well as volunteered regularly at Maple Alley Food Kitchen and for the Whatcom Symphony Orchestra. She had the time and energy to travel around the United States with Tulip Tours, went to Israel, and took some trips to Europe. Sally was an avid walker, following paths all over Bellingham through the years. Her deep connection to the Christian faith guided her steps always and was clearly apparent in her grace, zest for life, and positive attitude. Everyone who knew her lovingly cherishes the memory of a truly beautiful person. Sally was preceded in death by her parents, Alda and Reidar Rasmussen, her granddaughter Amelia E. Bethke, and step-grandson Daryl Colglazier. Her surviving family members are Lorella Losa, Karen Holmes (sisters), Shelly Colglazier (daughter) and husband Brad, Scott Bethke (son) and wife Emme V., Rob Bethke (son) and wife Carla, Jesse Colglazier, Jayme Colglazier, and Mandy Wages (grandchildren), 5 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. We have all been honored to have Sally in our lives. Her kind, upbeat, and truly loving spirit will always be with us. Due to Covid and CDC health recommendations, the family has decided to not have a memorial service. She would love to be included in your prayers. Donations to a charity of your choice can be made in Sally’s name.