Tresa Wilbee Goodfellow
January 19, 1954 - February 15, 2025
Obituary
Tresa Wilbee Goodfellow, born on January 19, 1954, in Wheaton, Illinois, passed away peacefully at the age of 71 on February 15, 2025, in Bellevue, Washington.
Tresa was the beloved daughter of Victor “Roy” Wilbee and Shirley Elizabeth “Betty” Wilbee, who preceded her in death, along with her sister, Heather Wilbee. She is survived and missed by Bruce Wiggins, her loving life partner of 50 years; daughter, Erica Williams and husband, Evan Williams; daughter, Celena Rasberry and husband, John Rasberry; grandchildren: Blakely Williams, Brayden Williams, Ella Rasberry, and Aria Rasberry; and siblings Linda Wilbee, Brenda Wilbee and Tim Wilbee.
Tresa’s life demonstrated her profound dedication to the well-being of others. She devoted over 40 years of her life to the field of Marriage and Family Therapy, where she made a significant impact on countless individuals and families. Her academic journey led her to earn a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University in 1985. Throughout her esteemed career, she held numerous leadership roles, including serving as the Association President for the Washington Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (WAMFT) in 2004-2005 and again in 2018. Her commitment extended to the national level, where she served on the Board of Directors for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) from 2014-2016 and again from 2021-2023. Her outstanding contributions were recognized with several honors, including Volunteer of the Year from WAMFT in 2005 and 2019, from AAMFT in 2018, and named a WAMFT Distinguished Clinical Fellow in 2015.
In addition to her professional achievements, Tresa was known for her vibrant spirit and keen sense of humor. She cherished her family, friends, and experiencing life’s adventures to the fullest. Tresa embraced her hobbies with enthusiasm, particularly her deep love of the outdoors.
Whether tending to her garden, building sandcastles and playing on the beach, camping with family, or simply enjoying a long walk, she found immense peace in nature. Always eager for a challenge, Tresa developed a wide range of skills and hobbies, including masterful sewing and baking, expertise in puzzles and board games, and the detailed production of Christmas pageants. As the life of the party, she fostered a profound sense of community, always seeking to bring people together. Tresa held meaningful connections in high regard, valuing friends, family, and traditions above all.
Tresa’s spirituality deeply informed her care for others, and she was committed to making a positive difference in the lives of her family, friends, and clients. Her legacy as a peacemaker and advocate for kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Tresa Wilbee Goodfellow’s memorial service will be held privately in the Spring.
May we honor her memory by carrying forth her legacy of compassion, laughter, dedication, and love.