Dean Melvin Bame was born in Bellingham, WA to Clarence and Helen Bame. He lived on the family farm and attended Meridian Elementary, Middle and High Schools. Dean was active in baseball, football, and track. Graduating from high school in 1961, he went on to study Physics and Mathematics at Western Washington University. In 1966 he started his career in teaching at his alma mater: Meridian High School! In 1969, Dean accepted an opportunity to teach children of military families who were stationed overseas, under the Department of Defense. His first assignment was to Okinawa, Japan. He came home during the first summer and met Judy Parker, from Seattle, who was attending W.W.U. Dean was transferred to Wurzburg, Germany in 1970. In June 1971, Dean and Judy married and moved to Wurzburg, Germany where they both loved teaching and living in the German culture for nine years. In 1980-81 they taught in Seoul, Korea. From 82-89 they taught in Vilseck, Germany, and then moved to Clark Air Base in the Philippines, for three years. Their final assignment was back in Okinawa! Dean retired in 1994 and returned to Bellingham. "For fun" he earned his real estate license and met new friends! He also enjoyed substituting in the high schools, saw his family often, and loved boating and skiing on Lake Whatcom. His other interests and passions were to seriously study God's Word, serving in church, and supporting evangelistic missionaries. He was a dedicated Christian. He leaves behind his wife, Judy of 54 years, two sisters, Donna Kuiken, (Norm Perri), and Diane (Ron) Wilson, and many nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, cousins, and many friends. If you are interested in giving a memorial gift, we encourage you to give to a charity or mission of your choice. If you would like to help support missionaries we know personally, you can write a check to Redeemer Church Mission fund in memory of Dean Bame. Internment is at Greenacres Memorial Park in Ferndale, WA This service will be available online at https://vimeo.com/event/5448408

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by My Bellingham Now on Oct. 14, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Dean Bame

8 Entries

Dan Hall

October 17, 2025

I got to know and rub shoulders with Dean (and Judy) off and on for about 15 years while living in Bellingham. I enjoyed meals at their Lake Whatcom home & the use of Dean's pickup on multiple occasions. Dean's life was marked by faith, affability, hospitality, & generosity. He will be missed. I'm looking forward to another wonderful meal with him at the wedding supper with the Jesus (Rev 19:5-7). May God comfort you Judy.

Rhonda Wendover Moore

October 15, 2025

I was lucky enough to be a student in one of Mr Bames math classes. We were told that if we were good students and worked hard our illustrious teacher would swallow a live goldfish for us. Apparently we must have worked hard because one morning he came to class with a fish bowl. And yes he swallowed it whole. That was at least 55 years ago. Dean and I became friends on Facebook several years ago and had fun tormenting each other on occasion. We didn't have the same politics or opinions but I always respected him for his thoughtful comments. Rest in peace Mr Bame ! See you later!

Renee Swinburne

October 14, 2025

I'd like to know how many people Dean taught to water ski, myself being one of the many recipients. I'll never forget his majestic dock start. Sending you love, Judy.

Renee Swinburne (Visbeek)

Sent Sympathy Gifts including Trees

Sheila McCartney

October 14, 2025

Dean was a great guy. He will be missed by so many friends located all around the world.

Norm Perri

October 12, 2025

I met Dean´s sister Donna 23 years ago. Dean was a pleasure to know for the last 23 years. Having Sunday lunch with Dean and his family over the years was always something I looked forward to. I always enjoyed it when he asked me to help him on his farm. I will always remember the July 4th barbecue´s and the boat parade Dean took us. Dean, you were truly an amazing person and someone who will be missed by all.

Keith Cox

October 11, 2025

What a great friend and family member! He was a model of kindness, inclusion and servanthood. Dean was one of those people who said "yes", even before he knew the question. We will miss him and look forward to sharing eternity with him in the new heaven and earth.

Joyce Clark

October 10, 2025

I met Dean at Western attending Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. For one of our activities he took us water skiing. It was the first time I had ever been water skiing. Then unbeknownst to me, later in life I found out that he became my brother's brother-in-law. He will be missed at their family gatherings on Sunday afternoon.

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