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BORN
1952
DIED
2025
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Becky Walstad Obituary
November 1, 1952 - March 19, 2025
Bellingham, Washington - Becky Walstad (n�e Beard), age 72, died of Alzheimer's disease at Highgate Senior Living in Bellingham on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. She was born November 1, 1952, in Bellingham to Bill and Eldora "DoDo" Beard, attended Assumption Catholic School, and was in one of the original graduating classes from Sehome High School in 1971. She received her education and master's degree from WWU and, in 1975, started work at Roosevelt Elementary followed by a 43-year teaching career at Silver Beach Elementary School.
Becky had many friends and interests, but, above all else, she was a teacher. She taught generations of Silver Beach families and cared deeply for every one of her students, attending their graduations, weddings, and in many cases, teaching their children years later. Becky was active in the Bellingham Education Association, serving on the BEA board and health benefits committee. In addition to teaching, Becky was a founding member of the Sr. Catherine Auxiliary at St. Joseph Hospital, a former Elder and active member of Cordata (Birchwood) Presbyterian Church, and a great neighbor and friend to all.
Becky is survived by her sister, Penny Walden (Randy); niece, Kelly Walden (Ambyr Burrell); nephew, Andy Walden-Montoya; stepdaughter, Katie Walstad Morgan; and her second family, Sue and Phil Sharpe and their daughters, Katie (Adam) Kortlever and Claire (Nate) Card.
Becky was preceded in death by her parents, and her nephew Andy's husband, Mauro.
The Walden and Sharpe families would like to thank the many friends, neighbors, and caregivers who loved and supported her over the last five years. A special thank you to Cecelia Ford, a constant giver of care and friend throughout Becky's journey with Alzheimer's and the staff and caregivers at Highgate Senior Living.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Sunday, March 30 at Cordata Presbyterian (400 Meadowbrook Ct, Bellingham).
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Bellingham Public Schools Foundation, Cordata Presbyterian Church, or a children's charity of your choice.
You may share memories of Becky at www.westfordfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Becky Walstad
6 Entries
Pele Thornton
November 19, 2025
I don´t know how I only just found this out, but Becky was my teacher at Silver Beach from 2nd to 3rd grade and a huge influence on my early years. She was a wonderful woman who I hold to heart and think of every time I think of a good teacher. I only wish I could have seen her after elementary and middle school to give her my thanks in person, but thank you Becky Walstad (or as I knew you Mrs. Walstad) for being a huge part of my life and a support for so many years, whether or not you knew it. Rest easy.
Lynn Kole
April 4, 2025
Oh my goodness, this hit me like a ton of bricks! I knew Becky from my student teaching at Sehome Hi in 1970. She was a special person then and l know now as well. She was in a class of her own! I look forward to connecting with her in the next life! You are restored!!
Karen Peila
March 26, 2025
My daughter was a student of Becky's 23 years ago. We met again at Highgate assist living and memory care when my mom was there. Every time I said, "Hello Mrs. Walstad," she lit up with a big smile. That big smile is shining down on all her students.
Nancy Zurline Wutzen
March 23, 2025
You were always so special Becky. I know DoDo was there with open arms to greet you. Many memories from the past.
Evie Martinez
March 22, 2025
Becky Walstad was our grandson's third grade teacher. I volunteered as a parent and was the PTA president for a short time. She was an amazing teacher. I would be in her classroom and the children would be orderly, quiet, helpful and polite. How do you do it Becky? She had a gift in teaching. She loved her kids and her kids loved her. Our grandson is now entering college and to this day, Mrs. Walstad was his favorite teacher. Becky, you are missed! Know you are in a better place.
Liesa Krause
March 21, 2025
My dad, Ed Brown, worked with Becky when he was the principal at Silver Beach. He had great respect for her and thought she was a great teacher. My condolences to your families.
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Funeral services provided by:
Westford Funeral Home & Cremation Service1301 Broadway, Bellingham, WA 98225
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