Whatcom county's oldest resident, J. C. Bertrand, died Monday night at the home of his son, Jenks Bertrand, in this city, Monday evening at the age of 103 years. Mr. Bertrand, who defied old age as he passed the century mark, has been for many years a famous character of this city and his popularity extended to other sections of the county. In 1858 Mr. Bertrand arrived in Blaine from his home in Exeter, Illinois. His first work was along the boundary line slashing. He moved to Chilliwack in the spring of 1859, where he was engaged in the mercantile business. He was married November 3, 1859 and to the union were born nine children, Mrs. Bertrand having departed this life in 1918. In March, 1871, Mr. Bertrand again returned to the United States and went to Bertrand Prairie near Lynden, which part of the county now bears his name. He returned to Blaine in 1866 (sic) [1886?] and opened a store, continuing in business for twenty-five years. He also dealt in real estate. The call of the wanderlust attracted him in 1900 and he went to Alaska and later was one of the explorers of Northern British Columbia.
Up to the time of his death he was unusually active for his age, up to the last year or so, devoting part of each day to the cutting of wood. He had not been ill, but developed a cold several days ago, which is believed to have resulted in his passing. Survivors, in addition to his son are three daughters, Mrs. Arthur Marshall and Mrs. Frank Glenn of Bellingham, and Mrs. Frank Adams of Blaine. Funeral services were held this Thursday afternoon at the Purdy funeral chapel and interment was made in the Blaine cemetery. Rev. Clarence B. Seely was in charge of the services. The entire community regrets the passing of this old pioneer and its sympathy is extended to the surviving relatives.
