For decades, James Mason (bear454) has been a well-known fixture in the local tech community, making innumerable connections through his work with SUSE and as an organizer and President of the Board for Linuxfest Northwest. You’d also find him generously and enthusiastically investing his time and expertise engaging, educating, and encouraging fellow nerds at Bellingham Codes, Bellingham Makerspace, and more.

James' passing after over four years of dealing with cancer and a rare clotting disorder has left his wife, Alina, and his two children facing financial hardship. As for so many families, the journey through illness was not only emotionally exhausting but also financially devastating. Now, as they grieve, they must also deal with meeting immediate needs and planning for a future without their beloved husband and father.

We’re reaching out to everyone who knew James, and especially to the Linux and open source community that meant so much to him. Any contribution — big or small — will help ease the burden on James' loved ones. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser or leaving a message of support would mean the world to them. Thank you for helping us honor James’ legacy and the spirit of community he cherished and nurtured.