Dolores "Dee" Zimmerman

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our cherished mom, Dolores “Dee” Helen Zimmerman, who passed away on July 22, 2025 at the age of 97.

Dolores hand wrote her own obituary (in italics below) for everyone to enjoy:

      "The date, August 4, 1927. The place, Sedro-Woolley, WA. Enter the birth of Dolores (Dee) Helen Mellott, born to Gene & Rose Mellott.
      They lived at South Pass, WA the first 6 ½ years of Dolores’s life. During her growing up years, they lived at 7 different addresses in Whatcom   County, the last at Lake Samish. She attended 5 grade schools during that time and graduated from Mt. Baker High School.
      Dolores met her husband, Phillip Zimmerman, at Ole’s Resort, on Lake Samish, owned by her parents, Rose and Gene Mellott. She married Phil in 1948. They bought one of the resort cabins and built it into a beautiful home on Lake Samish where they raised three daughters with much love. Dolores loved being a Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother.
      She was preceded in death by her parents Rose & Gene, Phil (her husband of 60 years), three sisters; Coralie (Bob) Kellas, Carol (Dick) Monaghan, Barbara (Dean) Postlewait, her brother Duane Mellott, Grandson Nick Coleman and Nephews; Greg Postlewait, & Rick and Doug Monaghan.
      She leaves to survive 3 daughters; Pamela (Greg) Windsor, Phyllis (Mike) Coleman, and Lori (Brad) Desmul. 5 Grandchildren; Jason and Travis (Tricia) Windsor, Jamie Desmul & Lindsey (Ben) Desmul, and Kristina Coleman/Barnum, and Great Grandchildren; Jazmine, Tristina, Lucas, Lane, & Fiona, and numerous nephews & nieces.”

The obituary she wrote was such a wonderful gift. Her family has also added more memories they wanted to share in the obituary below:

Dolores was an avid gardener, an expert at wallpapering and home decorating, and a compassionate caregiver to most of her immediate family. We will miss all the family and friend gatherings she and Phil held at Lake Samish. She was the most social person you’d ever meet. She had a gift of making people feel seen, included and celebrated, whether it was a holiday dinner, birthday celebration or an impromptu get-together, she welcomed everyone with open arms. Known for hosting joyful potluck celebrations that blended great food, great music, with even greater company, she made everyone feel like family.

Dolores was a true spitfire – a woman of fierce spirit, sharp wit, and boundless love. She lived life on her own terms, never backing down from a challenge and always standing strong for those she loved. Her laughter was loud, her hugs were healing, and her presence lit up every room she entered. Her impact on our lives is immeasurable, and her sassy spirit will forever remain with us.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Bayview Cemetery, followed by a reception at Westford Funeral Home.

Please share any special stories or memories about Dee in her online guestbook below.