James Jay Haugo

James Jay Haugo was born on July 22, 1939, in Mahnomen, Minnesota, to Einar and Hulda Haugo. He passed away at home on April 23, 2026.

Jim was the oldest of four children, all born within a span of four years. The family moved to Kent, Washington, in 1941, as his parents sought employment at Boeing. When Jim was in the third grade, his parents separated. What followed was a custody dispute during which the children were taken, first by their father, twice, to Minnesota, and then returned, twice, to Washington by their mother. Eventually, the children remained in their mother’s custody. She moved the family to her hometown of Ferndale, where they were blessed to stay with friends until she was able to purchase a home.

After several years, their mother remarried. This was a difficult transition for Jim, and he struggled during this time. It was decided that Jim would attend Kansas City College and Bible School in Overland Park, Kansas, where he completed his junior and senior years of high school, graduating in 1957. During that time, he formed meaningful friendships that lasted a lifetime.

Upon returning to Washington, Jim found employment at Georgia-Pacific, beginning in July 1959. Later that year, he was called to serve in the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. While there, he met his future wife, Bonnie, at a local Assembly of God church. They were married there in July 1961.

After completing his military service, Jim and Bonnie moved to Bellingham, Washington, where he returned to Georgia-Pacific. Jim worked as an instrument technician until his retirement in 2001, after 42 years of dedicated service.

Jim and Bonnie had two daughters, Cheryl, born in September 1962, and Sandra, born in June 1966. Jim had a deep appreciation for classic cars, especially Chevrolets, though later in life he developed a fondness for Hudsons. He enjoyed connecting with others who shared his passion.

In May 1964, he was one of the founders of the Antique Automobile Restorers Club. He was also active in Gear Heads and the Hudson Essex Terraplane Club (H-E-T Club). Jim subscribed to Hemmings Motor News and Old Cars magazines for many years. He was especially pleased when a photo of his Hudson was featured on the cover of Old Cars magazine.

Jim also found joy in driving newly married couples from churches to their receptions and participating in local parades. A lifelong Christian, he raised his children in the church and remained steadfast in his faith as his health declined, resting in the assurance of salvation.

Jim was preceded in death by his brothers, Herb and Peter; and his eldest daughter, Cheryl.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his daughter, Sandi (Russell); grandchildren, Lance, Janelle (Michael), Colleen (Troy), Kaitlyn (Ian), Baylee (Jarod), and Cara; step-grandson, Nick; nine great-grandchildren; and one step-great-grandson.

A memorial service will be 11am on Friday, May 1, at Life Church (747 Marine Dr. Bellingham) followed by a reception at Bellingham Yacht Club (2625 S Harbor Loop Dr. Bellingham).