Nona Bemis

Nona Bemis, born to Fredrick Richards and Leona Holthus, passed away peacefully Monday, Aug. 22, 2022, in Bellingham Wash.

Nona was born in Britton, S.D. She was the oldest of 10 kids. Nona moved to Bellingham during her high school days. She married Ed Sooter in 1956, together they had two children, Robert Sooter and Tammy (Ed) Vevag.

Nona married Ralph Bemis in 1977 and they adopted Chrystal Bemis. She had three step-daughters, Marsha Doyle (deceased), Debbie Zoutendyk, and Tammy (Lloyd) Treese.

Nona had six grandchildren, Carl Vevag, Erik Vevag, Amanda Stidham, Kaitlyn Taylor, Shiloh Sooter, and Andrew Sooter; Six great-grandchildren and numerous step-grand and great-grandchildren. Nona leaves behind her beloved dog Buddy.

Nona spent many years as a foster parent to over 200 kids. In the 1970s Nona owned the Pet Stop Pet Store before moving to St. Marie, Mont., where she had many friends.

She enjoyed crafts, classic country music, Seattle Mariners and the Atlanta Braves baseball, as well as Seattle Seahawks.

Nona is preceded in death by her husband Ralph Bemis; step-daughter Marsha Doyle; both parents and many siblings. Nona will be laid to rest with Ralph at Greenacres Memorial Park in Ferndale, Wash.

A special thank you to the helpful staff at Hospice. Also thank you to Gary and Linda for all they did for Nona. We all love and miss you!

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.