Dell L. Blankers

Dell Lane Blankers, age 64, of Bellingham, Washington, passed away peacefully in his sleep of natural causes on October 2, 2025, at his home. Dell was born on May 25, 1961, in Bellingham, Washington, to Arvin and Nelda (VanderMey) Blankers. He grew up in a loving family alongside his brother Derry and sister Deawn. A graduate of Lynden Christian School, Dell was active in the music program, where his beautiful singing voice and musical talent were well known. He began working at Barron's Electronics and KLYN Radio station while in high school and later worked in a variety of electronics stores. From an early age, Dell showed a keen and curious mind. The family home often reflected his inventive nature-filled with gadgets, alarms, and creative surprises that sprang from his imagination. He loved taking things apart just to see how they worked and was equally gifted at putting them back together again, often with improvements of his own design. His creativity and intelligence brought a special kind of energy and wonder to family life, and those who knew him remember his ingenuity with both admiration and fondness. Dell had a gentle spirit, and his love for his parents ran deep and enduring. Though life was not always easy for him, he made a genuine effort to stay close to those he loved. He found ways to share time and connection, even when doing so required deep personal courage. Those moments-simple, sincere, and often unspoken-became a lasting gift to his family. Their devotion to him was constant, and his presence among them, even in silence, was deeply felt. Dell's lifelong faith in God was steadfast and sure. He trusted in his Savior and in the promise of eternal life. His family is reassured by that faith-having heard his testimony and seen it reflected in the calm resolve with which he met his life's challenges. Dell walked a unique road, seen by few but known by God. His journey was marked by grace, perseverance, and a rare gentleness of spirit. His life reminds us that true courage is often found in quiet endurance and steady faithfulness. Dell is survived by his parents, Arvin and Nelda Blankers; his brother, Derry Blankers (and wife Tami); his sister, Deawn Ross (and husband Allen); nephews Zachary (Hannah) and Eli (Audra) Blankers; and niece Brittany Ross. He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. A private family graveside service will be held at 1pm on Saturday, October 18th. For friends and family, a reception will follow at the "Club House" located at 500 Fieldstone Loop, at 2pm. Arrangements are under the care of Gillies Funeral Home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dell, please visit our floral store.