Welcoming U.S. Marine Corporal Kevin Axcel Antonio-Jose Home to Washington State

Corporal Kevin Axcel Antonio-Jose of Lynden Washington.Photo byLynden Chamber of Commerce & USMC

LYNDEN, WASHINGTON - The Lynden community is coming together this weekend to honor U.S. Marine Corporal Kevin Axcel Antonio-Jose, who passed away on September 11, 2024. A devoted Marine who joined the Military right out of High School, Kevin left behind a comfortable life, friends, and family to serve his country. Now, it’s our turn to honor his service to our country and his memory.

Kevin, a friend cherished by many, was known for his dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his nation. This Friday evening, September 20, 2024, and Saturday, September 21, 2024, we will welcome him home with heartfelt tributes and ceremonies, inviting everyone to join in honoring his life.

Official Detailed Timeline: Friday, September 20, 2024:

• 5:10 P.M.: Corporal Antonio-Jose’s flight is expected to land at SeaTac Airport.
• 6:00 P.M. (approx.): The procession will depart SeaTac, traveling north on I-5 to Bellingham, then continuing north on Guide Meridian before turning east on Front Street to arrive at Gillies Funeral Home in Lynden.
• 8:00-9:00 P.M. (approx.): Arrival in Lynden. The community is encouraged to line the route, wave flags, and show support. The procession is expected to arrive in Lynden at around 8:00 p.m., but attendees are advised to arrive early incase the procession arrives earlier than expected
• 9:00 P.M.: A private family visitation will be held.

Saturday, September 21, 2024:

• 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.: Public visitation at Gillies Funeral Home.
• 1:00 P.M.: A funeral service for family and close friends will be held at Gillies Funeral Home, followed by a procession west on Front Street to Lynden Cemetery.
• 2:00 P.M.: A full military honors burial will take place at Lynden Cemetery.

Gillies Funeral Home will provide route notes and estimated arrival time updates on their Facebook page for those wishing to line the route and honor Corporal Antonio-Jose as he returns home.

We urge the community to show up, and we urge people from around Washington State to show up, whether it's people from Bellingham, Seattle, Mount Vernon, Burlington, Tacoma, Spokane and Lynden, etc. Let's stand together., and honor Kevin's life and service. This is a chance for Lynden and Whatcom County to demonstrate its gratitude to a young man who gave everything for the freedoms we enjoy. Let’s come together to support Kevin’s family and friends during this difficult time and show our love and respect for a true American hero.

For more information and any potential updates, please keep an eye on local announcements and Gillies Funeral Home’s social media channels.