Marvin Wayne, MD

Originally from Detroit, I attended the University of Michigan Medical School. I completed a fellowship in London, England, and then a surgical residency in Denver, Colorado. Following that, I served as a surgeon in the United States Army in the Vietnam War. Eventually, I moved to Seattle and, 50 years ago, to Bellingham and Whatcom County. Upon my arrival, I collaborated with others to establish the EMS system we have today. I continue to work with my colleagues to develop and expand that system. While I take pride in my contributions, I am even prouder of my ability to inspire and motivate others. As I wind down my career in EMS, I remain dedicated to helping shape its future.

Janice Lapsansky - Secretary/Treasurer

My husband and I are life-long residents of Washington state and have lived in Whatcom County for almost 45 years, raising two children on our hobby farm in Ferndale. I bring to the Foundation a unique blend of experiences as a college educator, firefighter/EMT, doula, and researcher in the emergency care and treatment of cardiovascular disease. My admiration for those who choose a vocation grounded in service is boundless—these individuals quite literally harness themselves to their work, embodying selflessness and dedication. 
As a perpetual student, I’m always acquiring new training and skills so that I may promote health in my community in as many capacities as possible. I am committed to several volunteer positions and continue to referee soccer for all age groups, including the athletes of Washington Special Olympics. When warmer weather arrives, you’ll also find me training and racing with the Bellingham Bay Outrigger Paddlers.
 

Jim Hallett - President

Jim is a lifelong Washingtonian and currently lives in Bellingham with his wife, Joanne. He's a dad to two sons, Ross and Bodi, and one great dog. Jim earned his Bachelor of Business Administration, and later his Master of Science in Financial Planning, from Pacific Lutheran University.

In 1987, Jim started his own independent Financial Planning and Wealth Management firm, earning multiple professional designations along the way, including Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Financial Consultant, and Accredited Investment Fiduciary Analyst. He continues to serve as a Professional Fiduciary.

Prior to moving to Bellingham, Jim served the community of Port Angeles and the Olympic Peninsula in a variety of elected and appointed leadership positions, including two terms as a City Councilperson, Mayor, and later as Port Commissioner.​

Jim continues his community service now as a member of the EMS Executive Oversight Board and its Finance Committee, and helped establish and serves as President of the EMS Foundation of Whatcom County.

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Ralph Weiche, MD - Vice President

Dr. Ralph Weiche, MD, is an experienced emergency medicine physician based in Bellingham, Washington, affiliated with PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. He has served as an attending physician there for over 20 years, holding various leadership roles. Dr. Weiche began his EMS journey 35 years ago with an EMT certification from Harborview Medical Center. He earned his B.S. and medical degree from the University of Washington and is board-certified in internal and emergency medicine. Currently, he is the Medical Director for Bellingham EMS, Medical Director for Paramedic school, Medical Director and advisory board member for Mount Baker ski area, and vice president of the Whatcom County EMS Foundation board. Starting January 1, 2025, he will assume the role of Whatcom County Medical Program Director.

Richard (Dick) Williams

Dick Williams and his family—wife Linda and daughters Tiffany and Tarrah—relocated to Bellingham in 2001. After dedicating 32 years to the fire service, including 27 years with the City of Bellevue, WA, Dick retired as the Captain of Ladder 1.
Dick's career began with his acceptance into the University of Washington Medical School. Upon graduation, he served as a paramedic for a decade before advancing to the role of Medical Services Officer (MSO), a position he held for another 10 years. His promotion to Captain marked the final phase of his distinguished career, which he completed with his assignment to Ladder 1.
Dick has a deep appreciation of the service and compassionate care that our first responders provide in Whatcom County.  When not enjoying family and time spent in Arizona, you can find him working as the Director of Health & Safety for RAM Construction.