Charmaine Lynne Wood

Charmaine Lynn Wood Alarcon (née Gillmere), lovingly known to family and friends for her vibrant spirit and creativity, grew up in Skykomish, Washington, where she graduated from high school. She went on to pursue her passion for art in Anacortes, Washington, earning an Associate's degree in Graphic Arts.

Charmaine spent many years building a life and raising her family with her husband of 30 years, Francisco Alarcon, in Bellingham, Washington. In later years she settled in Lynden, Washington, on family property.

She was known for being full of spirit, outgoing, and deeply passionate about the people she loved. In her early life she especially enjoyed the outdoors-camping, hiking, and exploring the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Charmaine also had a deep artistic side. She loved setting up an easel in a park to paint the scenery around her or recreate scenes from memory. Her creativity extended into designing clothing and making imaginative Halloween costumes for her children-many years finding the family dressed in her latest creations, from Batman costumes to whatever idea she dreamed up next.

More than anything, Charmaine will be remembered for her unwavering support of her family. She showed up for every milestone she could-dance recitals, wrestling tournaments, and countless events, sometimes spending an entire day sitting in the bleachers just to watch a few minutes of her children's performances. Her presence and encouragement meant everything to those she loved.

Charmaine is survived by her brother, Loren Gillmere; her son, Colby (Lindsey), and their children Penelope, Charlee, and Cooper; and her daughter, Monique, and her children Frankie and Leandrew, along with beloved family dog Luna. She is also survived by multiple nieces and nephews. She was a proud grandmother of five.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Francisco Alarcon; her mother, Marjorie Stone Gillmere; her father, Joseph Wood; her stepfather, Richard Gillmere; and her brothers, Leslie and Ronnie.

Charmaine's warmth, creativity, and deep devotion to her family will be remembered always.

A memorial service for Charmaine will be held in the Spring.