Thomas Berkley Blume

Thomas Berkley Blume, age 73, of Bellingham passed away Monday, June7, 2021 in Bellingham. 

Born in Ferndale, WA, Thomas Berkley Blume (Tom to his family and countless friends) grew up in Whatcom County, and spent 1981-1999 living in and around Tigard and Scappoose, OR, before returning to his beloved Bellingham and life on the water. 

Intelligent by birth, inquisitive by nature, and drawn to the mountains, woods, and sea, Tom chose a career in carpentry and woodworking. Over his lifetime, his talents progressed from logger and sawyer to timber framer, fine finish carpenter, sculptor, boatbuilder, and all-around master craftsman. In addition to his vast love and knowledge of all aspects of woodworking and sailing, he could fix almost anything with next to nothing, and would help anyone—whether they were stuck on the side of the road or in the middle of the Salish Sea. 

His love of building was matched only by his love of knowledge and education. And he read voraciously and deeply; being one of few carpenters and sailors who could hold forth on topics ranging from Political Science to Art, History, Religion, Native Legends, Maritime Lore, and so much more. Through his resourcefulness, self-reliance, sense of humor, and huge heart he nurtured, inspired, and taught countless others to master their own skills, seek their own bliss, and live their own lives their own ways. 

While everyone who knew Tom assumed he would likely pass at 150 years old while saving a boatload of refugees before going on to remodel Valhalla, the universe had other plans. And though Tom is no longer among us, he will live on in our memories, our actions, and our love for one another. May we all embrace life as fully as he did, and take solace and joy in the time we shared.

Tom is survived by his sons, Tim Blume and partner Krista Pettis; Matt Blume and spouse Emily Blume; grandsons Wyatt, Nolan, and Sawyer Blume; sisters Connie Blume and Sue and her spouse Mike DenAdel; brother Rod Blume and his spouse Adi; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives—and more friends than anyone could count, much less imagine. 

A memorial celebration of Tom's life will be held on Saturday July 17, 2021, from 2-6pm at the Squalicum Boat House at Zuanich Park in Bellingham, WA. Guests will enjoy pie, ice cream and coffee, so feel free to bring your favorite pie you shared with Tom over the years, and don’t forget your favorite coffee mug, either!