Donald Leif Hrutfiord
Donald Leif Hrutfiord, 95, died at home on February 4, 2025, of cancer. He was raised on a farm south of Blaine, eventually designing and building his house on the same property. A lifetime Blaine resident, he graduated from Blaine High School.
Don worked as an auto mechanic for Breidford Motor Company for 20 years. During the Korean War, he was drafted into the Army for two years, assigned to a post in France repairing military equipment. Don eventually took a position teaching auto mechanics at Skagit Valley College for 22 years. A friend once quipped, “The first day Don spent in college, he was the instructor.”
Don was a 28-year volunteer firefighter with Blaine and Whatcom County Fire District 13. He was Blaine fire chief for two years and fire commissioner with Whatcom County Fire District 13 for 22 years.
Until the age of 94, Don raised grass-fed beef cattle. He was proud of his farm and the improvements he made. He loved his cattle, working the land, and operating and repairing the equipment. Don was proud of his Icelandic heritage. Every year he made a traditional Vinarterta for his birthday and Christmas to share with his family and friends. He was a multi-talented, skilled man of many interests and accomplishments, always planning the next project or adventure.
Don is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary; his sons Raymond Gerald Hrutfiord (from his previous marriage), Daniel (Kim) Hrutfiord, and Chris Hrutfiord; granddaughter, Amber; step-grandson, Cory; and great-grandson, Brayden. Also surviving are sisters-in-law: Theresa Pomeroy, Margaret Eames, and Catherine Beason; brother-in-law John Seffern; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Barney and Bella Hrutfiord; son, Russell Dale Hrutfiord (from his previous marriage); and brother and sister-in-law, Bjorn and Janet Hrutfiord.
We thank the Whatcom Hospice team who literally traveled through ice and snow to help us care for Don at home. Raise a glass and toast your good memories of Don. A private family celebration of life will be held in the future. Please sign the Book of Memories, light a candle and leave your condolences for the family at www.MtBakerCremation.com.
