North Whatcom Fire & Rescue, District 21
Mary Baker Baland, age 93, of Blaine passed away peacefully on November 2 at Good Samaritan Stafholt in Blaine, WA. Mary was born on a family farm in Kentucky where she spent her youth as a lover of horses and the outdoors. She then lived many years in both Arizona and California before finally moving to Blaine in 2011 to be with her daughter and son-in-law. A day never passed in Blaine that she did not acknowledge her gratitude for living “in paradise”.
Mary was the last survivor of a family of 11 children. She was preceded in death by husbands Ralph Westwood and Bruce Baland and by her daughter Sandra Westwood. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sallie and Dennis Cymbalski, granddaughter Holly (Michael) Kendall, grandson Roman Garcia, great grandchildren Lyndsie Kendall, Tyler Kendall, Kaitlyn Garcia, Brooke Garcia and numerous nieces and nephews, all who loved her dearly and deeply admired her courage and strength. Mary met all of her life’s many difficulties and challenges with a deep and unwavering faith. She had the heart of a servant, which will continue to influence her friends and family far into the future.
Mary’s memorial will be held in California where she will rest with her daughter, Sandra and her late husband, Bruce Baland.
The family wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the staff at Good Samaritan Stafholt. The care, concern and kindness that Mary and the family received were deeply appreciated. Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle and leave your condolences for the family at www.JernsFH.com.
