Author M. ‘Art’ Nordvedt

The remarkable life of Arthur M. Nordtvedt, age 91, came peacefully to an end on October 1, 2013. Surrounded by Shirley, his devoted wife and many other family members, he left us with quiet dignity.

He was born on March 8, 1922 in Bellingham to Thomas and Ebertina Nordtvedt, the second of their seven children.

Art and Shirley originally met in the fourth grade at Washington Elementary School, dated throughout their high school years and married in 1941.

Art was a famous in Bellingham and beyond in the mid to late 1960’s for designing and building specialty boats for the US Navy, the PBR, (Patrol Boat River) for the Vietnam War.

These boats were thee 1st patrol boats made of fiber glass introduced to a war theater. The boats out performed the planner’s wildest dreams.  The service of the US Brown water forces are legend still today with US Forces.

Art is survived by Shirley, his wife of 71 years; five children and their spouses; nine grandchildren and their spouses; and 13 great-grandchildren. He was immensely proud of this family and leaves them a legacy of faith, determination and loyalty.