Kim Elaine Bonsen

September 2, 2025, in the serene town of Lynden, where winds carried whispers of memories through the foliage, Kim Elaine Bonsen passed peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. Kim now joins Jerry and other loved ones from her past. Kim's tale began on January 16, 1944, as a cherished daughter of Howard and Elaine Shumway (Doty). Life blossomed when her brother Ladd joined the family after a 14-year gap. Kim and Ladd shared a strong bond for the Lynden Lions and WSU Cougars until her final breath. Kim graduated from Lynden High School in 1963. She was a cheerleader during high school, and it was here where fate intertwined her path with Jerry, culminating in a blissful marriage on May 9th, 1964. Two beautiful children, Christopher Ladd and Molly Elaine, graced their lives with joy binding them closer through memorable escapades: Macy's for impeccable gifting, New Year"s Eve dances and boating on Lake Whatcom were favorites. Christmas gatherings, Cabin Creek weekends, and Bonsen Rebellions were cherished family traditions where her famous raspberry jello and chicken lasagna delighted many tummies. Kim loved flowers. Her green thumb nurtured many vibrant blooms. Kim stood tall as a pillar in her community. Over two decades, she co-managed the local Hallmark store, sprinkling magic over birthdays and holidays. Sundays saw her worship and contributed enthusiastically at the Lynden Community Church. A highlight of her summers was cooking meals at the Lynden Fair with her friends for performers like Johnny Cash and Garth Brooks. She could also be seen at local gyms cheering on family members and friends' kids. The state basketball tournament was her favorite. Her devotion knew no bounds, embracing children Chris (Cheryl) and Molly, grandchildren Tasia Hickey, Chloe Bonsen, and Cara (Kory) Vandyke, great-grandson Robin Vandyke and niece and nephew Colin (Ali) Shumway and Emily (Mars) Chambers. The Shumway, Bonsen, Doty, and Reid cousins lit up her world. Kim will be warmly remembered for her mischievous pranks, infectious smile, wit, kindness and faith. A gathering awaits family and dear ones at Greenwood Cemetery on Wiser Lake Road at 1pm, followed by a service at Lynden Community Church at 2pm on September 13, 2025. A family social will follow at the Shumway Homestead at 7845 Noon Road, Lynden. As Kim rejoices in Cougar or Lion hues, please join the family by wearing a remembrance of the tapestry she loved. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Lynden scholarship foundation online or at PO Box 167, Lynden WA 98264 Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services,