Bellingham resident dies at 96 after 65-year marriage

Shirley Strand, a lifelong resident of Bellingham, died on Oct. 14, 2026. She was 96 years old. Her passing concludes a life that began on April 27, 1930, in a city that remained her home until her final days.

Strand lived through nearly a century of change in the region. She graduated from high school in 1948, a milestone that marked the early years of her adult life. Her family roots in the area were established when she was born the daughter of Hilding and Minnie Osberg.

Her personal history includes two marriages. Her first husband, James Roland, died in 2005. In 1961, Strand married Henry Strand. The couple remained together for 65 years, a duration that spanned most of their later lives.

She is survived by her husband, Henry Strand. She also leaves behind her daughter Erin Roland and her son, Jeffrey Strand, who is married to Courtney. Strand is the mother of four children in total. She was also the mother of Pamela Knudsen and Dawn Roland, both of whom died before her.

The family includes three grandchildren who will carry on her memory. They are Jared Haveman, Jonas Knudsen, and Dior Wright, who is married to Terry. These relatives are part of the extended family network that supported Strand throughout her years.

Friends and family recall Strand for her distinct personality. She was a regular attendee at swim meets, where she was known for loud cheering. Her sense of humor was a defining trait, often generating laughter among those around her. Her stories and wit were central to her social interactions.

Her funeral arrangements were handled by Sig’s Funeral Home in Bellingham. The local community mourns the loss of a woman who maintained a consistent presence in the city for decades. Her life story is now part of the local history of Bellingham.