Edna Rae Hurlbert

Edna Rae Hurlbert, age 84, a lifetime resident of Bellingham, passed away Tuesday, Feb 6, 2024 at the Whatcom Hospice House after a brief illness.

Edna was born Aug. 20, 1939 to Edward and Ruby (Riddle) Bloomgren. She grew up in the same neighborhood she lived in until her passing.  

She graduated from Bellingham High, and soon thereafter married Ronald Hurlbert. Edna and Ron’s early years were spent hunting, fishing and camping.

Then came the birth of their son Michael, followed 19 months later with daughter Jodi.   The first family home was a mini-farm. Horses, cows, chickens, dogs and an enormous garden.  Many family BBQs were hosted at the 34th street home.

In 1973 Ron and Edna built the home of her dreams on Mill Ave.  They worked tirelessly on this project and even lived in a camper on the property while building.

Ron and Edna and family spent most weekends camping and went on to purchase property on the Skagit River near Concrete, which became the new destination spot enjoyed by many family and friends.

Edna had many interests and was passionate about ALL of them.  She always seemed to have a large following of friends in whatever interest she was pursuing.  From horses, cooking, painting, crocheting, gardening, reading, ceramics, bike riding, book club, music,  Mahjong, Metaphysical studies and many many more.

Ron and Edna built “The Art Palace”.  Again they worked tirelessly on this building and Edna was able to provide a place for many people to do ceramics, porcelain dolls and take various painting and art lessons.  

Edna was passionate about music. She played many instruments and played them well. The organ, drums, guitar, recorder and accordion to mention a few.   She formed a music group the Troubadoras.  They traveled to adult care centers and festivals to share their music. They even recorded a CD.   

Edna had a special fondness of the cocker spaniel dog breed, and owned many. She is survived by her special loyal companion Buzzer the 3rd.

In 1993 Edna’s first and only grandchild was born, Lucas Wagner.  They have a special connection and bond to this day, and in 2023 she welcomed his wife Andi to the family and beautiful great-grand daughter Raina. Granny, as Luke called her, loved her visits with Raina and looked at pictures of her endlessly.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father Edward and Ruby Bloomgren, husband Ron Hurlbert, sister Carol Hitz.

She is survived by her son Michael and wife Sharie, daughter Jodi and ex-husband Scott, grandson Lucas and wife Andi, and great granddaughter Raina, numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held 2:00 PM, Friday Feb 16, 2024 at the Squalicum Boat house 2600 N Harbor loop Bellingham WA 98225.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Whatcom Hospice 2806 Douglas Ave, Bellingham WA 98225