William "Bill" Martinson

Our beloved Bill Martinson went home to Jesus Sep. 14, 2025, at precisely 11:00pm while the clock chimed the tune of Amazing Grace. He was 83. Bill was born Apr. 1, 1942, in Cedonia, WA, to Tony and Helen Martinson. They moved to Deming where he met Connie Chitwood of Lynden and were married Sep. 23, 1966. They were married 53 years and have one daughter, Kim Martinson of Lynden. After Connie passed away, Bill was blessed with a bonus love and married Janie Glass of Lynden, Nov. 7, 2020, and his family grew. Bill was instantly loved and is survived by brother-in-law Bill (Lois) Tjoelker, step-daughters Pat (Allan) Beld and Tami (Tom) Powell, step-grandchildren Ryan (Cora) Beld, Jason (Ashlee) Beld, Shawna Powell (Grant Steed), six step-great-grandchildren, and several step-nieces and nephews. Bill is also survived by his brothers Jim (Debora), Bud (Betty), and Ron (Ann) Martinson, and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Bill was preceded in death by his parents Tony and Helen, wife Connie, and brother Bob.

After graduating from Mount Baker High School, Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1961-1964, which included post-war Korea. He was trained in telecommunications, which allowed him to get a job with the local telephone company in Lynden after his honorable discharge. He spent his entire career installing telecommunications systems and also enjoyed being a lineman, climbing up poles and being out in the fresh air. After his retirement, he began what he called “recreational logging” for many years, following in the footsteps of his family before him. Bill has always been an avid deer hunter and continued hunting and hiking the hills of Conconully in Eastern WA until he was 80 years old. Bill continued to stay active, taking 2-4 mile daily walks around Lynden, until his last month. Bill has been a Harley motorcycle rider his whole life and enjoyed going on trips around the country with his buddies. Over the last few years, he built two custom Harley trikes which will be on display at the memorial.

Bill came to know Jesus late in life and would say “it felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.” He would like everyone to know that same forgiveness and peace with God.

Bill was a generous, steadfast man who loved his people well. We will miss you, Bill. Until we see you again.

Bill’s services will be Wed, Oct 1, open to everyone. 11:00am Military Graveside at Woodlawn Cemetery. 1:00pm memorial at North County Christ the King Church in Lynden. The memorial will also be streamed live at https://ncctk.online.church/

Janie and Kim would like to thank their family, church, and community for their outpouring of love and support.