Merritt Hiram Washburn
January 16, 1942 – March 3, 2025
Merritt Washburn died at home on Monday, March 3, after a long illness. His wife, Suzann, was by his side. Merritt was born in his childhood home in Birch Bay. He was the apple of the eye of his mother, father and three older sisters. Much of his childhood was spent riding his bike along the beach and working his putting green job at Halversons Resort/Seashore Inn for 10 cents an hour. Merritt participated in sports until his high school graduation in 1960 and remained an avid fan for the remainder of his life. He met the love of his life, Suzann Hawkins, in high school. They married in 1963 and remained together until his passing 61 years later. Merritt and Suzann expanded their family in 1970 with the birth of their son, Merritt Spencer Washburn.
Love of work was a lifelong passion for Merritt. He loved working with people and tried many different professions during his lifetime. His career began at Montoure Chevron at 18 years of age and ended at Hill’s Chevron at 82. During the years between Merritt was a haberdasher, cobbler and seamstress as owner and operator of Merritt’s Clothing for 18 years. He also tendered in Alaska, gillnetted in Puget Sound and served at Customs Border Protection in Blaine and Point Roberts for 26 years.
Merritt spent his 83 years learning, working hard and enjoying life. Nothing in that 83 years brought him more pleasure than love of his family. Watching his son grow and experience his love of sports, and to pass that passion on to his grandchildren, Rylie and Spencer, was a lifelong source of joy for Merritt. If Merritt was here today, he would want to thank his wonderful family and friends for a great life. 83 years was not enough!
Merritt is preceded in death by his parents Eddy and Olive Washburn and sisters Eunice (Benny) Larsen and Ethel (Ray) Montoure. He is survived by his wife Suzann; son Merritt Spencer; grandchildren Rylie and Spencer; sister Bonnie Larson; nephew Albert (Judy) Larsen; and nieces Debbie (Jeff) Fisher and Katrina (Kevin) Ramsey.
A celebration of Merritt’s life will be held April 6, 2025, 3:30 p.m. in the Victoria Room at Semiahmoo Resort. In lieu of flowers our family requests you donate to Hospice of Whatcom County.
