Editor’s Note: Story updated at 2:56 p.m. on 6/11/26 to include the cause of death from the Sheriff’s Office.
NOOKSACK, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The community is mourning the loss of a local leader and former law enforcement officer.
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office announced that Nooksack Mayor Kevin Hester passed away from cancer on Tuesday, June 9 while surrounded by his family.
Hester spent more than 30 years with the Sheriff’s Office, serving as a detective, lieutenant of the drug task force and chief of investigations and support services, among other roles.
He retired in 2021 and was elected mayor of Nooksack later that year.
In a social media post, the Sheriff’s Office praised Hester’s leadership, integrity and unwavering commitment to his community, saying he leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.
The City of Nooksack has declined to comment at this time.
