Hodge Funeral Home Obituaries

About Hodge Funeral Home

Hodge Funeral Home, located at 138 S. 8th Street, St. Maries, ID, 83861, has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in their time of need. With a long history of serving the local area, Hodge Funeral Home has built a reputation for excellence and trustworthiness.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

At Hodge Funeral Home, the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can face. That's why they are dedicated to providing personalized and caring funeral services that meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral ceremonies to cremation services, Hodge Funeral Home offers a range of options to help families say goodbye with dignity and respect.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Joseph E. Sparks - March 30, 1961 - April 25, 2024

Departed: 04/25/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Edward Sparks was born on March 30, 1961, in Portland. He grew up in Eugene with his parents, Dean and Pearl Lewman. At the age of 8 was gifted with a brother, Derrick, whom he adored. His childhood was spent with his amazing cousins who always remained close, his aunt, to whom he referred as, "my big sis," and his grandparents who loved their "Joey" beyond words. He had many fond memories with his grandpa Bill, learning everything there was to know about fishing and hunting, and ultimately, they got his first buck together.

Joe attended North Eugene High School where he loved to play baseball. In 1982, he moved to Lewiston after visiting his close friend, Jack. He was drawn to the area's rugged mountains that were fit for hunting, and the river right at his fingertips that would allow for years of fishing. He felt a deep connection to the area, later finding out that his great-great-grandparents had been laid to rest there many years before.

In 1984, he married and had two daughters, Jolene and Jessica. He included his girls in everything that he loved. Together they enjoyed camping, hunting for morel mushrooms at their secret spots, fishing and frequent trips to the Oregon Coast where he planned the biggest fishing trip they would have. He continued to make us laugh through his witty use of movie quotes back and forth, up until the end. He was a loving father.

He had a passion for hunting and fishing and enjoyed great times with friends from Oregon, Idaho and Wyoming and had the stories, pictures and trophies to show for it. He took pride in his beautifully landscaped yard and growing, harvesting and cooking from his garden. He was always ready for a good western movie, sitting around a bonfire like his grandma Bessie loved to do, or spending time with his eight grandchildren: Diesel, Madi, Paige, Lexy, Kamara, Bronson, Francesca and Raquel. Papa Joe loved them all so much. His last 21 years were spent with his fiancé, Sheryl. Their best times together were spent on the boat or camping.

Joe passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, after health struggles were ultimately too much for his body, but in true Joe form, he fought until the end. He will be deeply missed. Joe’s service will be held in Eugene, Oregon.

View Full Obituary

Michael R. Bebee - April 30, 1944 - April 21, 2024

Departed: 04/21/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Michael R. Bebee (79) longtime St. Maries, ID resident passed away at Tri-State Health Hospital in Clarkston, WA surrounded by his loving family. Mike was born to Horace and LaVella (Beck) Bebee on April 30, 1944 in Kellogg, ID. Mike grew up between the Kellogg and St. Maries, ID areas. He attended St. Maries High School, and then went to work for Safeway.

At an early age, Mike started driving log truck, even spending time in California for work. He married Edith “Sherri” Yeoman on June 10, 1972 in Coeur d’ Alene, ID. The couple had 2 children, Carol and Michael Ann, and they made their home in St. Maries. Mike went to work as a logger for Borgman Loggin and Jody Hendricks Logging. He retired around 2012 after 40 years in the industry.

Mike was a simple man who loved the simple life. He was an avid outdoorsman, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding 4-wheelers, and taking drive up the St. Joe River. Because the St. Joe River was his most favorite place on earth, he built a home near in St. Joe City. It was here that he felt at peace and enjoyed watching wildlife right off of his porch. He was friends with all of his neighbors, and he was known as the Mayor of St. Joe City. Having a beautiful yard and space, he took pride in his lawn care and even had a green thumb. He didn’t know a stranger and found joy in meeting the guys at Bud’s Drive Inn for coffee, or Resor’s (now Joe’s Bar) for beers in the afternoon. They would all just B.S. and catch up with one another; he also enjoyed spending time up in Calder at the restaurant and bar. Mike will be remembered as being well liked, very honest, and having quick wit with a sense of humor like no other.

Mike is survived by his children Carol Strickfaden (John) of Clarkston, WA and Bug Bodah (Richard) of Lewiston, ID; 7 great grandchildren; 4 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Edith “Sherri” Bebee, and siblings Lee Bebee, Jim Bebee Sr., and Donna Ternes.

A Memorial Service will be on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Elks Lodge in St. Maries. A gathering of family and friends to share a meal will follow.

View Full Obituary

Lavern A. Moore - April 30, 1952 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Lavern “Vern” A. Moore (71) longtime St. Maries and Emida, ID resident passed away on April 8, 2024 at Northern Idaho Advanced Care Hospital in Post Falls, ID surrounded by his loving

family. Vern was born to Gerald “Jerry” E. and Lois (Allen) Moore on April 30, 1952 in St. Maries, ID. Vern grew up between St. Maries and Emida, attending school through the 8th grade in Emida. Being raised on a farm, Vern was a natural athlete excelling in football and wrestling. He then attended St. Maries High School and graduated with the class of 1971.

Following high school, Vern married Joy Boeshans and the couple had 2 children, David and Anna. He enlisted into the U.S. Airforce. After 4 years of service based out of Georgia and spending a significant amount of time in Thailand, he was honorably discharged and returned to St. Maries. Vern went to work in the woods logging and he also worked for the BLM and Mottern Ford. After 10 years, his marriage to Joy ended in divorce, but he was blessed with love again on April 12, 1986 when he married Tammie Pennington at the Hitching Post in Coeur d’ Alene. Their family’s joined, Vern with David and Anna, and Tammie with Kevin and Keith; together they had Kimberly and made their home near Emida. Vern also spent an impressive 37 years with Potlatch Corporation retiring in the Spring of 2014.

An avid outdoorsman, Vern loved hunting, fishing, and 4 wheeling; he enjoyed teaching his hobbies to his children and grandchildren. Family was everything to him, and although he loved his children dearly, he was quite smitten when the grandchildren came along, and they were his whole world. Vern also enjoyed spending time with his brother Ron cutting meat or haying with his brother Gene. The Moore boys started haying with horses originally and established a well-known and respected business. Christmas was a special time for Vern and his dad as they brought their draft horses into town and to the local tree farm for rides. Vern worked hard and enjoyed playing even harder, but he was also a very giving and generous man who would give you his last dollar or the shirt off of his back.

Vern is survived by his wife Tammie at their home near Emida; children David (Dee) Moore of Moscow, ID, Anna (Tom) Keightley of Lillian, AL, Kevin Moore-Pennington of Great Falls, MT, Keith (Katy) Moore of Lewiston, ID, and Kimberly Moore of Emida, ID; siblings Jerry (Jeri) Moore of St. Maries, ID, Gene and Nancy Moore, Ron Moore, and Bonnie (Bill) Swam all of Emida, ID; 10 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by both of his parents and his nephew Justin Swam.

Military honors will be presented at a later date and time to be announced.

View Full Obituary

Dee Ann Morris - December 15, 1958 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Dee Ann was born December 15, 1958, to Les and Evelene Haynes, in Portland Oregon, the youngest of five children. Her first home was in Forest Grove, Oregon, until 1964, when they moved to Nespelem, WA where she started 1st grade, and they lived for 7 years. In Sept. 1972, her family moved to Plummer, ID where she attended 7-12th grade. In 1973 she met the love of her life, Kurt Morris.

They went together from then on and were married on September 21, 1978. After they were married, they lived in Tensed, Idaho, where their first child, Julie, was born. They moved to Morris Mountain in 1979, into two tents, where they had to prop boards under the downhill sides of the beds. Her grandpa John took pity on them, and with the help of other family members, built them “the shed” to live in, where they lived while they started building a log home. During her pregnancy and after their second child Jacob was born, Dee Ann peeled logs, and helped Kurt set them in place each night when he got home from work.

By June of 1981, the house was ready, and not a moment too soon: they got moved in one week before their third child, Jolene joined their family. Two years later, in 1983, Benjamin was born, and completed their family. She raised and homeschooled their four children in the log home, and lived there until 2008, when they moved to a trailer near Kurt’s sawmill, by Plummer, where they lived until they bought the place below the log house, and moved back to Morris Mountain in 2014.

Dee Ann enjoyed reading, sewing, playing and singing music, helping others, hiking in the woods, and spending time with her family. She was well known for her helping heart, quick wit and ready smile, and her beautiful singing voice. She lived for her husband, children, grand and great grand children, and loved them all very much. She was a firm believer in her Savior, Jesus Christ, and was active in the church her dad built, Chief’s Chapel (Later Plummer Assembly of God), from 1980 to present. She passed away at home April 7, 2024, after a battle with cancer, and is survived by her husband Kurt Morris of Plummer, ID, her four children Julie Cook of Saint Maries, ID, Jacob Morris (Mariah) of Plummer, ID, Jolene Hill (Shayne) of Fernwood, ID and Benjamin Morris (Jody) of Plummer, ID 15 grandchildren- Michael Morris (Melissa), Matthew Morris (Hannah), Alexis Rose, Leslie Cook, Jewelynn Cook, Jamie Cook, IvieMae Morris (Tylor Nichol), Nicole Middleton (Vincent Gitto), Ashton Morris (Emily Burris), Layne Morris, Eli Morris, Baylee Hill, Amelia Hill, Eva Morris, and Tucker Morris

Five great grandchildren- Everleigh ,Iris, Venus, Phoenix, and Ervin, her parents - Les and Evelene Haynes of Fruitland, ID, four siblings - Jean Ducommun (Tim), Rod Haynes (Dee Ann), Charles Haynes, Brenda joseph (Phil) and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be on May 25, 2024 at 10:00 am at the Plummer Assembly of God Church. A potluck gathering will follow.

View Full Obituary

Leona Gladys Barnes - January 05, 1935 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Leona Gladys Barnes, age 89, of Calder, Idaho, passed away April 7th, 2024. She was born Jan. 5th, 1935, in Billings, MT to Leo Edwin Heinrich Wohler and Gladys Alpha Yost. She attended Billings Senior High class of '52. She then attended two years at Eastern Montana College transferring to Montana State University for her bachelor degree in Nursing. She met and married Charles Dee Barnes in 1959.

Lee continued her education and was the first in her class to achieve a Masters in Nursing, from the University of Washington. Lee continued her education by accepting a post-master program at the University of California San Francisco. Along the way, Lee and Charles added four children to their family. Lee was a nurse in Bloomington and Terre Haute, Indiana. In Lubbock, Texas she taught at the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing. She finally moved to Pullman, Washington where she worked with Infection Control at Pullman Memorial Hospital, retired in 1982, then later moved to Calder, Idaho in 1984.

Lee and Charles lived with their four children in: Washington, Iowa, California, Indiana, Pisa-Italy, and Texas. They traveled all over the world, and she enjoyed gardening, genealogy, stamp collecting and quilting.

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Roberta Galloway and Darlene Larson, and her husband who died this past Dec 26th, 2023, in Calder, Idaho. She is survived by her four children, Tara Peterson (Steven), Teagen Barnes, Kalee Arbanas (Kevin), and Kyler Barnes (Kerrie), and 13 grandchildren. Her living siblings are; Dorothy Sutherland (Sydney) of Calder, Idaho, Leo Wohler (Diana) of Billings, Montana, David Wohler of Carmel, Indiana, and John Wohler (Lin) of San Antonio, Texas.

A memorial service will be held May 4th, 2024, 11:00 at St Paul Lutheran Church, in St. Maries, Idaho. Ashes of both Leona and Charles will be buried at the Sutherland Cemetery in Calder, Idaho, at a later date.

View Full Obituary

Marie A. Farley - April 16, 1946 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: On Thursday, April 4, 2024, our beloved, beautiful, and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Marie Ann (Fewer) Farley, passed onto everlasting life with her family surrounding her with love after a long battle with lung cancer.

Born April 16, 1946 in Newfoundland, Canada to her beautiful loving mother, Mary Violet Anthony. She moved with her mother and sister to Philadelphia PA and became a US citizen at the age of 14. She proceeded to graduate from Little Flower High School, Philadelphia, PA. After high school, Marie worked as a payroll clerk for Dareff’s in Philadelphia. She went onto working for the US Postal Service as a letter carrier for Ottsville and Upper Black Eddy PA Post Offices, and then as a clerk in Richlandtown, PA Post Office where she retired from after more than 25 years of service. She received many award and recognitions but her most important and special to her was for saving the life of one of her customers in Upper Black Eddy PA. Marie was an active member of the Quakertown PA Moose Lodge, where she started a fundraising campaign for Operation Helmet. Where they raised enough money to outfit the entire USMC Company with the proper helmet liners to lower the brain injuries to Marines. Recognition by local television news gained the interest of Rep. Patrick Murphy, and she was honored in a Congressional Record for changing the policy/law which reimbursed the families for the purchase of these liners. Marie changed the lives of many Marines with this one act of kindness and concern. She was also an active member of the Elk’s Lodge in St Marie’s ID.

Marie was a lifelong resident of Kintnersville, Bucks County PA where she still has many friends and family that love her. She called Bucks County home before retiring to Fernwood, ID with her husband, Thomas (Mike) Michael, and son, Michael Anthony. She has been a resident and friend for the past 10 years.

Marie lived for her family and was a true source of strengthen to them. She loved cooking and baking for her family and friends. Marie was always the life of the party bringing many laughs and great memories to all. She will truly and deeply be missed by all but especially by her family who loved her dearly.

View Full Obituary

Barbara M. Eidsvig - May 17, 1956 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Barbara M. (Ross) Eidsvig (67) former long-time resident of St. Maries, ID was called home on April 4th, 2024, after a lengthy and courageous battle with lung cancer. She was born to Donald and Berta “Jackie” Ross on May 17th, 1956 in Hamilton, MT and grew up all over the Pacific Northwest. Being of the youngest of 7 children; you can only imagine the stories told – not to mention lived and survived! While “Happily Ever After”, may not have been in the cards, Barbara was blessed with 2 beautiful children (Annie and Michael) and loved living a simple life.

Barb was a “Jack of All Trades” and worked various jobs all of which met her personality. She definitely wasn’t afraid to try new things! Upon returning to St. Maries in 1991, Barbara managed the Eagles Lodge, waitressed/bartended at Knicker’s for Dave and Connie Hanley and also in the Pro Shop. She worked at IGA and subcontracted a rural postal delivery route. In 2000, she was promoted to “Nana” – the best title she ever held. She retired in 2010, but stayed busy and later moved to Wisconsin in 2018 to be near her daughter Annie. However, the lure of the mountains and her siblings brought her back home to Idaho where she settled in Coeur d’ Alene.

Enjoying the simplicity of life, Barb had few wants and found joy in most things; especially her loyal companion Rosie and her granddaughter McKaylah. If you couldn’t find her tending to her garden, cooking up something she had dreamt about, or simply reading a book on her swing, you could always count on finding her up the Joe taking in everything outdoors in our area. Huckleberry campground and Sasquatch floats was always something she looked forward to. Most importantly, she loved being with her family and friends.

Barb is survived by her children Annie (Keith) Nance of Boscobel, WI and Michael (Kelly) Voss of Benton Harbor, MI; siblings Marsha (Gary) Habberstad of St. Maries, ID, Charlotte (George) Davis of Emida, ID, Betsy Bieren of Blanchard, ID, Don (Cheryl) Ross of Fernwood, ID, and Reilly Gallagher of Larkspur, CO; 3 grandchildren plus 5 bonus grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Dick Jones, and infant sister Amy Ross.

Services will be held at a later time.

View Full Obituary

Levi Baza Faber - August 04, 1980 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Levi Baza Faber (43) resident of Coeur d’ Alene, ID passed away on April 3, 2024, at his home. He was born to Michael Sr. and Theresa Faber on August 4, 1980, in Coeur d’ Alene. Levi grew up in the Plummer and Desmet, ID areas along with time spent in Pendleton, OR and Metlakatla, AK. He attended the tribal school in DeSmet through his Sophomore year before attending the rest of his schooling in Coeur d’ Alene, obtaining his GED at North Idaho College in 1999.

Following high school, Levi went to work for Burger King spending a few years there, and then onto Jack in the Box. Wherever he worked, he was always a cook. He wanted to attend culinary school, but never had the opportunity to. However, he was taught by some of the best Sous Chef’s at the Coeur d’ Alene Casino. He was a talented cook with a specialty of fry bread. Levi spent time working at the Circling Raven Golf Course along with the Red Tail. He also spent time cooking in retirement homes and the resort on Hayden Lake.

Levi enjoyed having a good time, and his sense of humor was pretty witty. He enjoyed watching movies, but he definitely had a love for WWF and WWE wrestling. Levi might have been an older soul, he loved oldies music and Elvis was one of his favorites. Attending concerts was also a hobby of his. Levi loved spending time with his family, specifically during holidays. If he wasn’t watching a movie or cooking for somebody, you could find him cheering on the Seattle Seahawks or Mariners.

Levi is survived by his mother Theresa Faber of Plummer, ID; Buckskin Wardlow of Toston, MT; siblings Waylon Faber of Wellpinit, WA, Raven Faber of Plummer, ID, Michelle Stevens of Vancouver, WA, Sabrina (Avery) James of Spokane, WA, Renee Faber of Bakersfield, CA, Kari Wardlow of Springdale, WA, and Donelia Wardlow of Spokane, WA; numerous aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father Michael Faber Sr.

Family night will be on Monday, April 8, 2024 at the Rose Creek Long House in Worley, ID. Rosary will be recited on April 9, 2024 at 7:00 pm, at the Rose Creek Long House in Worley, ID. Mass of Christian burial will be held on April 10, 2024, at 10:00 am also at the Rose Creek Long House in Worley. Burial will follow at the Sacred Heart Mission Cemetery, then dinner at the Rose Creek Long House.

View Full Obituary

Shirley A. Williams - July 16, 1939 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Shirley A. Williams (84) resident of St. Maries, ID passed away at her home surrounded by family on April 2, 2024. She was born to Norman and Hazel Woolley on July 16, 1939, in Willits, CA. Shirley grew up in Potter Valley, CA graduating from Potter Valley High School with the class of 1957. Following high school, she married Kenneth Cook in June of 1957. The couple made their home in Colorado for a few years before returning to Potter Valley.

Raising a family, Shirley stayed home to take care of her children for a few years. She then worked as a waitress and a cook in restaurants. Later, she went to cook for the local hospital, nursing home, school, jail, and prison. Cooking for people was Shirley’s love language and she doted on anyone she cooked for. Her marriage to Kenneth ended in divorce, but Shirley was blessed with true love when she met and married Ray Williams on December 22, 1992. They were soulmates and the best thing that had ever happened to each other. Ray’s work took the couple to Weiser, ID where Shirley went to work for the prison between Weiser and Ontario, OR. To most this would seem a big scary prison, but to Shirley, they were extra kids that she would take care of and feed. The inmates loved her and looked at her as a mom; she watched out for them, and they would watch out for her. After 5 ½ years in Weiser, Ray and Shirley moved to Orofino where she again went to cook at the local prison. She spent 5 years there before her and Ray decided to move to St. Maries, ID.

Life in St. Maries was semi-retirement for Shirley. She went to work part time for the Benewah County Jail again cooking for inmates. She joined the Community Presbyterian Church and fell in love with her church family. They were amazing to her, and she was a blessing to them help cooking for bazaars and holiday dinners. When Shirley wasn’t cooking for someone, she enjoyed being on the water, fishing, crossword puzzles, gardening, and canning. Pickled asparagus was a favorite as was the Kokanee they caught. She loved to crochet, and each family member was gifted homemade gifts such as hats, blankets, dolls, and potholders. Most importantly, Shirley’s family was everything to her and she loved them all dearly. She was one of a kind and will be missed by anyone who knew her.

Shirley is survived by her children Melvin (Colleen) Cook of St. Maries, ID, Kevin (Tina) Cook of Athol, ID, Larise (Andy) Bailey of St. Maries, ID; step-children Michael (Susan) Williams of Lakeport, CA, Tim (Shawn) Williams of Willits, CA, and Debra Deason of Astoria, OR; 16 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Ray Williams, an infant son, and her siblings Bill Woolley, John Woolley, Norma Woolley-Clark, Tom Woolley, Richard Woolley, and Myrna “Sue” Woolley- Marshall.

A Memorial Service for Shirley will be May 4 at 11:00 am at the Community Presbyterian Church in St. Maries.

View Full Obituary

William Donald Hedgecock - July 31, 1922 - March 31, 2024

Departed: 03/31/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: William Donald Hedgecock (Bill) passed away at the age of 101 on March 31, 2024. Bill was born in Hermiston, Oregon on July 31, 1922 to Lucius and Martha Hedgecock. He attended elementary school at the one-room school house in Moyie Springs and graduated from Bonners Ferry High School in 1940. Bill served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Asiatic Pacific Theatre. He married Ona Thurlow in 1947. Bill, Ona and family moved to St. Maries in 1955. Ona passed away in 2006. Bill is survived by daughters Sheila (Gunter), Patti, Janie (Rod), five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. At his request no services will be held.

View Full Obituary

Lezlie Jo Whitney - October 29, 1975 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Lezlie Jo Whitney (48) resident of Lewiston, ID passed away at her home on March 29, 2024. She was born to Bill and Patsy (Shawver) Whitney on October 29, 1975, in Moscow, ID. The family moved to St. Maries in May of 1976. Lezlie was raised in St. Maries and attended school K-12 there. Growing up she was a fearless blue-eyed towhead that could put a smile on anyone’s face. She was a talented athlete playing softball and volleyball participating on a couple All-Star teams over the years. Her senior year she coached Senior Girls softball with one of her friends.

A social butterfly, Lezlie had many friends and enjoyed everything a kid growing up in North Idaho could experience. Aside from playing sports, she enjoyed hanging out with friends, taking adventures on small road trips, and spending time in the woods. She was adventurous, fearless, and stubbornly independent; also, a hard worker, she spent a couple of years working at Bud’s Drive Inn for extra money while in high school. Academics also came easy to Lezlie as she was extremely smart! She graduated from St. Maries High School with honors in 1994.

Following high school, Lezlie originally signed up for the Airforce, but changed her mind at the last minute and enrolled into North Idaho College. She and some friends moved to an apartment complex in Coeur d’ Alene, and she went to work at Burger King. Tragically, Lezlie was in a car accident that changed her plans and future forever. However, with her strength, determination, and therapy in Seattle, she was able to return home where she later enrolled into North Idaho College again. Later realizing she wasn’t that interested in obtaining a college degree anymore, she moved with her mother to Potlatch, ID and later settled down permanently in Lewiston, ID. Lezlie still enjoyed socializing and hanging out with friends, but her true joy was watching and cheering on the Seattle Seahawks and Mariners.

Lezlie is survived by her parents Bill and Mary Whitney of Rathdrum, ID and Patsy Shawver-Bowser of Clarkston, WA; grandmother Helen Whitney, sisters Kellie and Paul Tomlinson of Klamath Falls, OR, Bobbi Jo and DJ. Maefau of Livingston, MT (and her new nephew Wesley due in May 2024 that she was so excited to meet), Kelsey Blair of Palouse, WA, Cortney and Jerry Crane of Post Falls, ID, Angie and Johnny Flowers and Garrett and Amber Bowser all of St. Maries, ID; numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Gordon Whitney and Dewey and Nona Shawver.

A Memorial Service will be on Friday, April 5, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Hodge Funeral Home in St. Maries, ID.

View Full Obituary

Donald Elwin Hilde - October 16, 1944 - March 26, 2024

Departed: 03/26/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Donald Elwyn Hilde (79) resident of St. Maries, ID passed away at the Schneidmiller Hospice House on March 26, 2024. He was born to Grant and Ellen Hilde on October 16, 1944, in Everett, WA. Donald grew up in Spokane, specifically the Hillyard area. He graduated from Upper Columbia Academy with the class of 1963.

Following high school, Don married his high school sweetheart and love of his life Sharon Locke on April 12, 1964, at the Spokane Valley Seventh Day Adventist church, a church he was still an active member of and served as a Deacon back in the day. They met and started dating when Don was just 14 years old and just missed celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary by a couple of weeks. The couple made their home in Spokane, and then Mica, WA where they raised their children and took on 14 foster children over the years. Don went to work for Kaiser Aluminum at Trentwood. He ran heavy equipment and dedicated 39 ½ years to them before retiring. Once he retired, he went back to work for Car Quest for 3 years, and then he fully retired.

When he was able, Don liked horses and enjoyed “hobby farming” raising cows and chickens. Raising cows was a passion for him, and he always said, “Cows don’t care”. He collected anything John Deere and roosters, even painting his shop office in John Deere Green. Sharon and Don used to ride motorcycles, and they took a very memorable trip into Canada on them. They also traveled back East to visit family. Don was an old soul and loved anything “old fashioned”. He even had his grandchildren call him Grandfather and wanted to farm with horses instead of tractors. Dressed in a cowboy hat and boots most of the time, he enjoyed westerns and reading all about history. The family shares a lot of memories of camping trips and Don’s love for fishing. Oshkosh striped bib overalls were also a favorite, and each one of his great grandkids will be sporting a pair. He was a bullheaded Norwegian, and proud of it. He was family oriented and loved his family so much; specifically, his grandchildren as he was a kid magnet, and they had him wrapped around their fingers.

Don is survived by his wife Sharon Hilde formally of St. Maries; children Jim (Lisa) Hilde of St. Maries, ID, Kim (Doug) Anderson of Battleground, WA, Jay Hilde, Joanne Hilde, and Rena Hilde all of the Spokane, WA area, and foster child Shawn (Jordan) Ayars; 5 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary Hilde.

A memorial service will be at a later date to be announced.

View Full Obituary

Carolann Joy Parker - July 24, 1993 - March 25, 2024

Departed: 03/25/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Carolann Joy “CJ” Parker (30) passed away in Spokane, WA on March 25, 2024, with her mother and sisters by her side. She was born to James and Julianna Parker on July 24, 1993, in Spokane, WA. CJ grew up in Avery, ID, a place that was always in her heart. She went to school in Avery through the 8th grade, where she participated in Girl Scouts, dance, and soccer. She then attended Kootenai High School graduating with the class of 2011. After high school, she had her first son Asher, then came Lucy and Rhyder.

Growing up, she was a free spirit who loved the outdoors. She enjoyed hunting, berry picking, floating the St. Joe River, riding snow mobiles and 4-wheelers, catching salamanders, and exploring the woods near her childhood home. Much of CJ’s childhood was spent hunting bears, cougars, and bobcats with her dad and their Plott hounds.

CJ was very creative and had a love for drawing and writing poetry, as well as cooking and baking. She spent many sleepless nights decorating birthday cakes for her children. She also loved live music and singing karaoke. Some of her greatest hits include My Baby Loves Me by Martina McBride, Without Me by Eminem, and Leave – Get Out by her favorite artist, JoJo. She also created her own version of the song I Love Rock and Roll, changing the title and lyrics to “I Love Hunting Bears”.

CJ had the kindest heart, the warmest smile, and loved being a mother, sister, daughter, auntie, cousin, and friend. She had her struggles with addiction; however, she went through treatment in Spokane and received a high honor for her exemplary work in the program and was considered an inspiration to her peers. Soon after this, she enrolled in courses at North Idaho College with the goal of becoming a Drug and Alcohol Counselor.

CJ is survived by her children Asher, Lucy, and Rhyder; parents James Parker of Avery, ID and Julianna Parker of Worley, ID; siblings Macie Parker (Josh Schatz) of Cheney, WA, Jennifer Queen of Coeur d’ Alene, ID, Jessie (Jon) Davis of Hollis, NH, and Terissa (Arthur) Elwell of Coeur d’ Alene, ID; grandmother Joy Parker of Silverton, ID; uncles Rodger Hossfeld Jr. of Worley, ID and Dan Hossfeld of Plummer, ID; aunts Marcella Jecha of Lyons, IL and Cindy Schildgen of Wisconsin; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her grandparents Rodger and Bernadine Hossfeld and grandfather RD Parker; aunts Carol Spooner and Lynda Fahlgren; and uncles Rick and David Parker.

The rosary will be recited on Friday, March 29, 2024, at 7:00 pm at the Rose Creek Long House in Worley, ID. Her funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Sacred Heart Mission in Desmet, ID. Burial will follow at the Sacred Heart Mission Cemetery, then dinner at the Rose Creek Long House.

View Full Obituary

Stephen Douglas Hodgeman - December 01, 1946 - March 24, 2024

Departed: 03/24/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Stephen (Steve) Douglas Hodgeman (77) a longtime St Maries ID resident passed away at his home on March 24th. He was born on December 1st, 1946, in Oroville CA. Steve grew up around the Stonyford, Elk Creek and Willows area. One of his favorite high school memories he shared was of the day he skipped school to go fishing and Field and Stream Magazine were in the area doing a story and took a picture of him with the fish he caught. The picture ended up on the cover of the magazine, and needless to say, he got caught for skipping school.

After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he was in the 101st Airborne 87th division. Steve served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged in 1969 and found himself in North Carolina where he received his electrical certificate from Johnson College of Technology. He met the love of his life Jean in Fayetteville, NC and after 2 weeks of dating the couple married on November 29, 1969. Steve and Jean moved their family to Idaho in 1973 where Steve's family was the most important thing in the world to him. They had 4 children together, 11 grandchildren and in September will have 22 great grandchildren. Steve was an extremely involved parent, grandparent and great-grandparent.

Steve had many jobs in the area and after his oldest son graduated, he went to work in Nome, Alaska and then the North Slopes. He retired in 2016 but before retiring from Udelhoven in Alaska, he also went to work for a time in Africa. In his younger years, he always looked forward to hunting camp with his best friend of over 50 years Joe Burress and sons Rod, Scott and grandsons Blake, Ashton, Gabe, Matt and son in-laws Ken and Jeremy just to name a few that went to camp. As the years passed on, he still looked forward to hunting camp, but Steve and Jean would also take their granddaughters Jessica, Jasmine, Hilary, Rissa and Haley to a motel to have swimming parties. Later on, the granddaughters decided to invite the grandsons to join in on those parties and Steve also looked forward to the summers his granddaughters Nikki and Chelsea would come to visit from New Jersey.

In his spare time, Steve enjoyed watching rodeos and old westerns. He loved North Idaho and read many books about the area. He and Jean loved going 4-wheeling, exploring, fishing, and hosting at Huckleberry Campground. In the winter, they enjoyed going to AZ and the adventures they went on with friends there. Steve had the gift of gab, and loved to visit with anyone that had a moment.

Steve is survived by his wife Jean at the family home in St. Maries, ID; sons Rodney Hodgeman, Scott Hodgeman, daughter Ronda (Jeremy) Stephenson all of St Maries, ID and daughter Sonia (Ken)Ross of Coeur d' Alene, ID; brothers David Taylor and Chris Gruwell of St Maries, ID; sister Debbie Lehman of Cottonwood, CA , Sarah (Graham) Harwood of Vancouver WA, Donna (Mike) Main of Clarkston, WA and Annett Coats of Dunn, NC; 11 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Lots of bonus children and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his mother in-law Vera Thornton, sister Elayne Hodgeman and brothers in-law Allen and Ricky Thornton.

Military Honors will be presented at Woodlawn Cemetery on April 13th at noon followed by a Celebration of Life at the Elks Lodge in St Maries at 1pm.

View Full Obituary

William Fredrick Barden - July 09, 1945 - March 19, 2024

Departed: 03/19/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: William Fredrick Barden (78) longtime St. Maries, ID resident passed away at his home on March 19, 2024. He was born to Fred and Gertrude Barden on July 9. 1945 in Hurley, WI. Bill grew up in St. Maries attending school there. He left school to go work in the woods, and at the age of 21 he enlisted in the U.S. Army.

Bill served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged in 1969. He returned to St. Maries and went back to work in the woods. In 1980 he married Kathleen Conley and the couple had 2 children. He bought a self-loader and established his own logging company. Bill logged all over North Idaho and ran his logging company for many years before the industry became busy and flooded with more loggers looking for work; creating a very competitive market for small gypo loggers. He then went to work for Jack Buell, driving trucks and running machines, ending his career running a Processor in 2004. Sadly, Kathy died in 2011; however Bill later found companionship and friendship with Harriet McCall.

In retirement, Bill enjoyed being in the woods and would cut firewood as a hobby. He also enjoyed attending auctions and riding his side by side. He and Harriet would camp and pick huckleberries all over, including trips to Southern Idaho and Utah; she was good at keeping him busy. Time at his cabin up the St. Joe was by far one of his most favorite things to do, and when he was able, he liked to hunt. Matlock and watching Westerns were his favorite things to watch on tv, but don’t let him fool you, he was also a huge Judge Judy fan! Most importantly, he loved spending time with his grandchildren Jada and Jaysen and following them around in their sporting events.

Bill is survived by his children BJ and Tracy Barden and Nicole Barden all of St. Maries; siblings David and Tonia Barden of Washington and Suzanne Kerby of St. Maries; grandchildren Jada and Jaysen Barden of St. Maries; and close friend Harriet McCall of Fernwood. He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife Kathy Barden.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 5, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Elks Lodge in St. Maries with a gathering of family and friends to follow. Military honors will be presented at a private by invitation only graveside service held later.

View Full Obituary

Donald Bruce Welch - January 24, 1947 - March 14, 2024

Departed: 03/14/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Donald Bruce Welch (77) resident of St. Maries, ID passed away on March 14, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was born to Albert “Louie” and Jean Welch on January 24, 1947 in Yreka, CA. Don grew up in Weed, CA where he excelled as an athlete, being inducted into his high school’s Hall of Fame for Basketball, Football, and Track & Field. He graduated from Weed High School with the class of 1964.

Following high school, Don earned a football scholarship to Oregon State University. He spent 2 years there as an Art Major. Following college, he moved to Portland, OR where he went to work for Union Carbide. It was there he met Cyndie Brown, and the couple dated several years before marrying on June 3, 1971 in a beautiful back yard ceremony at her parent’s home in Portland. The couple made their home in Portland, adding four daughters to the family. Don was provided with an opportunity to expand the Union Carbide company in the early 1980’s and moved the family to West Virginia. After two years there, the family moved to Lakehead, California. The family lived in a cabin in the woods and lived simply off of the land. Don hunted and fished for food alongside raising rabbits, chickens, and ducks. He had a talented green thumb and could grow the biggest and best garden you had ever seen. Don was a gifted carpenter; he helped to remodel and build homes for several years before he was hired by R&R Leisure Craft to build house boats. He designed and built the “fly bridge” which was a steering station allowing the driver to steer the boat from the rooftop. This was a first of its kind and is still in use today. After 15 years with R&R, he decided to change his career path by beginning employment with Shasta Nursery building green houses and serving as their handy and maintenance man. At the same time, Cyndie ran a day care out of their home, and Don helped with the cooking and transportation of the children in her care. The family grew by one additional daughter.

Don retired in 2011. He and Cyndie moved to St. Maries, ID and helped their daughter and son in-law with their business “The Pines Motel”. To keep busy in retirement, Don continued to help friends and family using his extensive carpentry knowledge and skills.

Together, Don and Cyndie ran the Book Shack where he could visit with the patrons who quickly became friends. Don never knew a stranger and had the gift of gab.

An avid outdoorsman, Don enjoyed everything the outdoors had to offer, specifically hunting, fishing, and picking morel mushrooms and huckleberries; he knew the backroads of California and Idaho very well, and had many favorite spots for hunting, fishing and picking.

He was active as a coach when his children played sports, and enjoyed following his grandchildren when they also became involved in sports. He loved to read and enjoyed American history, art, painting, creating, sculpting, and carpentry. To say he will be missed by friends and family is an understatement, he has left a void in his family’s hearts.

Don is survived by his wife Cyndie at their home in St. Maries; children Dawn (Mark) Alves of Red Bluff, CA, Kellie (Kevin) Hofmaister of Moscow, ID, Nicole (Steven) Raymond of Red Bluff, CA, Lindsey Welch of Redding, CA, and Jordann (Darryl) Welch of St. Maries, ID; sister Susie (Dwight) Hammond of Burns, OR; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Sally Taylor and Dale Welch.

View Full Obituary

John Robert Olson - September 19, 1945 - February 24, 2024

Departed: 02/24/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: John Robert Olson 9/19/1945 - 2/24/2024 age 78.

John was born in Seattle WA to Chauncey and I. Frances (Durham) Olson. After completing his GED, John served in the Navy for four years.

John's civilian work was with electronics, and he retired from Scanivalve in Liberty Lake. He met his future wife Susan at Itronix in Spokane Valley, where he taught a soldering class, and they married 12/29/2004.

Outside of work, John was quite the handyman. Together, John and Susan restored and modernized the homes they shared. John could do beautiful furniture restoration too.

It wasn't all work though! Some of John's favorite memories came from their big RV trip in 2012; traveling through many US states and parts of Canada and stopping to visit friends and relatives along the way. John and Susan would make an annual trip to the Mt St Helens area for huckleberry picking. In John's later years, he enjoyed going for rides up the St. Joe River to see the deer and elk in the meadows.

John was predeceased by his parents Chauncey and I. Frances Olson, sister Joyce Olson, and sister Jeanne Warehime. John passed peacefully at home in St. Maries, ID after a period of declining health. He is survived by his wife Susan (Schumacker) Olson, niece Jody Nelson, niece Wendy Warehime-Skinner, stepchildren Lauren Franzen, William Pentland, and Jennifer Hart; and five step grandsons.

View Full Obituary

Rosalee Bekins - August 08, 1941 - February 24, 2024

Departed: 02/24/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Rosalee Bekins (82) resident of St. Maries, ID passed away on February 24, 2024. She was born to Peter and Joyce (English) Gallagher on August 8, 1941, in St. Maries, ID. Rosie grew up in St. Maries and graduated St. Maries High School with the class of 1959. She married Ron Hamberger and had their son Ron Hamberger II; however, the marriage ended in divorce.

Rosie then met and married Ernie Horton Sr. He was in the military stationed all over the United States, so Rosie worked various jobs over the years. She worked for West Coast Airlines out of Spokane, the family moved to Moses Lake and then onto Sioux City, IA; there is where Ernie Horton Jr. was born, and she was able to stay home with her children and take care of the home. The family ended up in Post Falls, ID where her marriage to Ernie Sr. ended. She went to work for Y-J Foods, and then decided to try out Alaska. Rosie moved to Alaska spending time in Fairbanks and Valdez. This was an adventure that she loved. She worked for Westmark Hotel as a waitress and ended her career after several years as a cashier for Safeway. When she retired, she returned to St. Maries to be closer to family.

A generous person at heart, Rosie enjoyed spoiling and giving things to her family and friends. She enjoyed collecting teapots and thrift store shopping and often finding treasures that she knew someone would love to have. Rosie also loved the casino whether she was playing slot machines or going to BINGO and if she wasn’t there, you might find her at home drinking her coffee cheering on the Gonzaga Bulldogs. She will be sorely missed and remembered for being so kind to everyone, the kind that would give the shirt off her back to anyone.

Rosie is survived by her children Ernie (Yvonne) Horton Jr. of St. Maries, ID and Ron (Jill) Hamberger of Santa, ID; siblings Denny (Rita) Gallagher of Post Falls, ID and Cathy (Larry) Swinney of Oregon; 3 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, son Petey, sister Sally Asbury, and granddaughter Jenny Horton.

View Full Obituary

Donna Marie Manriquez - January 29, 1958 - February 22, 2024

Departed: 02/22/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Donna Manriquez “Idaho Donna” of Hayden, Idaho passed away February 22, 2024, in the care of Hospice following a battle with cancer. She was surrounded by those she loved the most in her final days.

Donna was born in St. Maries, Idaho to Deanna Dewald Reep and Kenneth Reep. Donna later moved to Libby, Montana where she married Forest Martell and had two children before moving back to St. Maries. She moved to Georgia to be closer to her daughter in 1997 where she made many friends before moving back “home” to North Idaho.

Donna worked in several fields during her life but her work for the US Forest Service at Middle Sister Lookout and later as a firefighter were what she always loved. She had a huge love of the outdoors and road trips to the mountains.

Donna is survived by her daughter Katherine (Brian) Owen of Cohutta, Georgia, son Ronald Martell, and two grandchildren who she adored, Stefanie and Michael, many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Stanley Reep and Ronald Reep.

There will be a very small, private celebration of life at a later time for close family and friends to take Donna home to her much-loved Middle Sister.

View Full Obituary

Alan R Hill - July 29, 1944 - February 21, 2024

Departed: 02/21/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Alan R. Hill (79) resident of St. Maries, ID died February 21, 2024, at Benewah Community Hospital. He was born July 29,1944 to William and Virginia (Pelton) Hill in Moscow, ID. Alan grew up in Elk River, ID where he attended school. He graduated from Elk River High School with the Class of 1962. While in high school, Alan excelled in athletics playing basketball, football and baseball. He played football for WSU for one year before transferring to LCSC in Lewiston on a basketball scholarship where he played for one year.

Working in the woods was always calling Alan to the St. Maries area, he moved to St. Maries and married Barbara Hudgins. They had two children and later divorced. Alan went to work for Jack Buell Trucking as a shop manager and also ran a processor for a combined 42 years.

Alan met Mary Eidness at the St. Maries Golf Course and they were married April 10,1999 at the Hitching Post in Coeur d’ Alene, ID. After his retirement from Buell’s Shop, Alan enjoyed golfing, watching Westerns, Gonzaga basketball games and WSU sports. He enjoyed watching all sports on TV and was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

Alan and Mary enjoyed going south for the winter months to Las Vegas and Texas to see their grandchildren. They also enjoyed trips to Wisconsin and wherever else they may have wanted to go.

Alan is survived by his wife Mary at the family home; daughter Becky Bebee of St. Maries; son Rodney (Jalie) Hill of Amarillo, TX; and stepson Chad (Shawna) Linton of Boise, ID; and sister Kathy (Joe) Perdue of Seattle, WA. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren with 1 on the way, and 2 nieces. Alan was preceded in death by his parents. At his request there will be no formal services, there will be a private celebration of his life at a later date. Memorial donations and contributions can be made to Hopes Haven, 53 Robinson Lane, St. Maries, ID 83861.

View Full Obituary

Todd James Curley - August 10, 2000 - February 19, 2024

Departed: 02/19/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Todd James “TJ” Curley (23) passed away in Spokane, WA on February 19, 2024. He was born to Clifford and Pamela (Hendrickx) Curley on August 10, 2000, in Spokane. TJ grew up in Plummer and attended school there. He was a talented athlete who excelled in basketball and golf. A class clown, he was gifted with his father’s sense of humor. He found joy in making people laugh and was always cracking jokes.

TJ loved the outdoors and all they had to offer. He hunted, fished, and rode bikes all over the area. Racing at Airway Heights on motorcycles was always a good time, and he was good at it. He was fairly competitive but was fortunate that he never broke a bone in the sport. TJ took on some odd jobs spending time in the maintenance department at the casino, a cashier at Fighting Creek, and he and some friends opened a small engine repair business where they specialized in lawn mower repair. He was mechanically inclined and enjoyed tinkering on things.

TJ is survived by his parents Clifford Curley and Pam (Chris) Biles all of Worley, ID; siblings Ashley (Joshua) Richmond and Kimberly (Cameron) Smith of Worley, ID, Aaron Allen of Plummer, ID, and Shannon (Sean) Rosdahl of Spokane, WA; grandmothers Mary Beth Chambless of Plummer, ID and Ida Curley of Worley, ID; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his son Kenai Castro-Curley and his grandfathers Lyle Hendrickx and Dominic Curley.

Family night was held on March 22, 2024 at the Rose Creek Longhouse in Worley, ID with Rosary Recited the next night on March 23 at 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial was held on March 24, 2024 at 10:00 am at the Rose Creek Longhouse with a burial at Sacred Heart Mission Cemetery in DeSmet, ID.

View Full Obituary

Jacqueline Brechbill - July 12, 1937 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Jacqueline “JoAnn” Brechbill, 86, died Sunday, February 18, 2024, in Palm Desert, CA. She was born to Harold and Frances Ruggenberg in St. Maries, ID on July 12, 1937. She spent the majority of her youth in St. Maries where she graduated from St. Maries High School in 1955.

After graduating high school, she attended the University of Idaho. She began working for the United States Forest Service in St. Maries. During her career JoAnn worked in Coeur d' Alene, ID; Corvallis, OR; Lakeview, OR; Portland, OR, and eventually in San Francisco, CA where she retired after 30 years of service. During the latter part of her Forest Service career, she returned to college and earned her Bachelor's degree from Saint Mary's College of California in Moraga. Upon her retirement she continued her education and received her Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, NJ. After earning her degree, she started her second career as an ordained Presbyterian minister. Her ministry took her to many places including Lakeland, FL; Berkeley, CA; Spokane, WA, and ultimately to Colorado Springs, CO. JoAnn’s influence was felt far and wide as she comforted those in need, preached the gospel, and ministered to many. Known for her smile, infectious laugh and great sense of humor she affected many lives and left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

JoAnn had an amazing life, she loved spending time with her family, was an avid reader who enjoyed traveling, and was fortunate enough to visit many countries around the world, including three trips to the Holy land. JoAnn is survived by her two sons, Lance (Jeffrey) Brechbill of Rancho Mirage California, Lane (Julie) Brechbill of Livermore, CA; siblings Jay (Ethel) Ruggenberg of Spokane, WA, Judy (Dale) Yarber of Rathdrum, ID, and Jeannie (Joe) Spiesman of St. Maries, ID; many nieces, nephews. and friends.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Colorado Springs on April 15, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. A private family burial will be held later this summer in St. Maries, ID.

View Full Obituary

Marlena R. Nelson - January 23, 1977 - February 10, 2024

Departed: 02/10/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Marlena R. Nelson (47) longtime resident of the Fernwood and St. Maries areas, passed away after a fierce and courageous battle with cancer at her home on February 10, 2024, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She was born on January 23, 1977, at Benewah Community Hospital in St. Maries. Marlena grew up in Fernwood attending the Upriver school before attending St. Maries High School.

Marlena became a young mother in 1994, so she left high school for a couple of years; however, she returned and graduated with honors with the class of 1998. She married Joe Nelson on November 6, 2004, and they made their home in Fernwood, having 4 children. During this time, Marlena worked for the Upriver school cleaning and substitute teaching. Her marriage to Joe later ended in divorce. Marlena then went to work for Stimson Lumber Company in the Planer and ended up moving to St. Maries. After a few years with Stimson, she went to work at The Landing in Harrison, and then Jack’s Pharmacy. She met her best friend and partner in life Tim Mitchell in the summer of 2017, and they joined their lives together making their home in St. Maries. Marlena was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and was forced to quit work because of her health and treatments. This gave her the opportunity to spend a lot of time with her grandchildren, and she was the best Gigi around. She fought a tough fight that lasted over 6 years.

The outdoors were probably Marlena’s most favorite place to be. She enjoyed simple things such as drives in the woods, road hunting, beach days, road trips to Avery, and spending time in her garden. When she was able, she loved playing summer league softball. Her indoor hobbies included baking, cooking, crafting, and making jerky. She found so much joy in gifting her family and friends the things she made with lots of love.

Marlena is survived by Tim at their home in St. Maries; children Sam (David) Barbour, Casey Nelson, Ricky Nelson, and MJ Nelson all of St. Maries, ID and step children Luke (Laura) Mitchell of St. Maries and Alex Mitchell of Post Falls, ID; mother Lynda Mitchell of Fernwood, ID; siblings Miranda (Alecs) Guerrero of Coeur d’ Alene, ID and Laci (Tom) Akins of Rathdrum, ID; 6 grandchildren; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by grandparents and her stepfather Ken Mitchell.

A Memorial Service will be on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 11:00 am at the Elks Lodge in St. Maries. A gathering of family and friends to share a meal will follow.

View Full Obituary

Elayne R. Hodgeman - November 12, 1944 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Elayne R. Hodgeman (79) resident of St. Maries, ID passed away at the Schneidmiller Hospice House on February 8, 2024. She was born on November 12, 1944, in Colusa, CA. Elayne grew up in California and graduated high school in 1962.

Following high school, Elayne became a Certified Nurses Assistant and worked in psychiatric and children’s hospitals throughout her career. In 2003 Elayne moved to St. Maries to be closer to family. She worked at Valley Vista Care Center, and then became one of the local bail bondswomen.

Elayne enjoyed rescuing animals, specifically cats and dogs. She loved watching old movies and was very knowledgeable about the classic actors and actresses. She lived a simple life and preferred it that way.

Elayne is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her siblings Steve (Jean) Hodgeman of St. Maries, ID, David Taylor of St. Maries, ID, Debbie Lehman of Cottonwood, CA, Chris Gruwell of St. Maries, ID, and Sarah (Graham) Harwood of Vancouver, WA; numerous nieces and nephews, and her beloved fur babies Memphis and Cleo. At Elayne’s request there will be no services

View Full Obituary

Thomas P. Whiteside - December 14, 1943 - January 27, 2024

Departed: 01/27/2024 (St. Maries)

Obituary Preview: Thomas P. Whiteside (80) resident of St. Maries, ID passed away at Benewah Community Hospital on January 27, 2024. He was born in Deer Lodge, MT on December 14, 1943. As an infant, Tom went to live with his uncle and aunt Paul and Juanita Whiteside who cared for him and raised him as their own. Over the years he grew up in the states of Washington and California. He graduated in 1962 from Franklin High School in Stockton, CA.

Following high school, Tom enlisted in the U.S. Navy and married Ethel Lovelace. The couple had two children and were stationed in Hawaii and the Philippines. Tom served over 7 years before he was honorably discharged. He returned to California where he worked various jobs and his marriage to Ethel ended in divorce. He went to work for a carpenter’s union in Stockton and he met Nancy Oberrender. Tom moved to Calder, ID for a job at the mill in the small town. Nancy followed him to Calder with her children in tow, and they married making their home in St. Maries and some of the surrounding smaller communities. When the Calder Mill closed down, Tom went to work for the U.S. Forest Service. He and Nancy divorced, but he remained very close to her children. On August 26, 1992, he married the love of his life Kelly Payne. Tom retired in 2009 from the Forest Service, and sadly Kelly died in 2010.

Tom enjoyed shooting guns and hiking. He loved digging in the dirt and cleared a lot of land over the years. He was a talented welder who loved to build and tinker on anything and everything. He was well known for and will be most remembered by his family for his goof ball stories, dad jokes, and pranks he would play on everyone.

Tom is survived by his children William Whiteside of Florida, Gloria (Greg) Whiteside Hamilton of Parrish, FL, Roger Canty of Plummer, ID, Steven Canty of Hayden, ID, Diane (Brad) Branson of St. Maries, ID, Wendy (Bill) Maryott of Rathdrum, ID, Brian Oberrender of Tieton, WA, Eric Payne, and Leilani (Daylon) Reed of Spokane, WA; 15 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Paul and Juanita Whiteside; siblings Charles Whiteside, Thomas Dean, and Julia Liccari; and his wife Kelly Whiteside.

At Tom’s request there will be no services, you may visit his online tribute at hodgefuneralhome.com.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

A Commitment to Quality and Excellence

Hodge Funeral Home is committed to providing exceptional service and attention to detail. Their experienced staff takes pride in ensuring that every aspect of the funeral process is handled with care and precision, from preparing the deceased for viewing to coordinating logistics for the funeral ceremony. Families can trust that every detail will be taken care of, allowing them to focus on what matters most – celebrating the life of their loved one.

Personalized Funeral Services

Hodge Funeral Home believes that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individual's personality, interests, and accomplishments. That's why they offer personalized funeral services that can be tailored to meet the specific needs and wishes of each family. From themed funerals to customized memorialization options, Hodge Funeral Home helps families create meaningful tributes that honor their loved ones.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional funeral services, Hodge Funeral Home also offers cremation services for families who prefer this option. Their experienced staff can guide families through the cremation process, ensuring that every step is handled with care and respect. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, Hodge Funeral Home provides a range of cremation options to suit individual preferences.

Pre-Planning Services

Hodge Funeral Home understands that planning ahead can provide peace of mind and financial security for families. That's why they offer pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make their own funeral arrangements in advance. By pre-planning, individuals can ensure that their final wishes are respected, while also relieving their loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Community Involvement

Hodge Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the local community and is committed to giving back. They participate in various community events and charities, demonstrating their dedication to supporting those in need. By choosing Hodge Funeral Home, families are not only receiving exceptional funeral services but also supporting a business that cares about the well-being of its community.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted and compassionate funeral home in St. Maries, ID, consider reaching out to Hodge Funeral Home. You can contact them by phone or visit their website to learn more about their services and offerings. Their experienced staff is always available to answer questions and provide guidance during a difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, achievements, and surviving family members.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing and to provide details about their funeral or memorial service. It also serves as a way to honor and celebrate the person's life.

Who writes an obituary?

Obituaries are typically written by family members or close friends of the deceased, but they can also be written by funeral homes or professional obituary writers.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include details about their life story, accomplishments, and charitable donations.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary, but it's generally recommended to keep it concise and focused on the most important information. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 1-2 paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online obituary platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help to personalize the tribute and make it more engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to find out their submission guidelines and deadlines. You may need to provide the text of the obituary, as well as any photos or other materials.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance, either as a way to reflect on their life or to ensure that their wishes are respected after they're gone. This is often referred to as a "self-obit" or "autobit."

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only the most basic information such as name, age, and date of death. It's often used in conjunction with a full obituary.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice that provides factual information about the person's life and death, while a eulogy is a spoken tribute that celebrates their life and shares personal anecdotes and memories.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a great way to capture the personality and spirit of the person who has passed away. Just be sure to use good taste and avoid offending anyone who might read the obituary.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive or private details about the person's life that you don't want to share publicly, it's best to omit them from the obituary or phrase them in a way that is respectful and tactful.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers or other gifts. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and support a good cause.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The time it takes for an obituary to be published can vary depending on the newspaper or online platform. Some may publish immediately, while others may have a delay of several days or even weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. However, this will depend on the policies of the newspaper or online platform.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can try searching online archives or visiting your local library or genealogical society. Many newspapers also maintain archives of past issues that can be searched by date or keyword.

Can I reuse an obituary from another source?

If you're using an existing obituary as a template or inspiration, be sure to get permission from the original author or publication before reusing any content.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary myself?

If you're struggling to write an obituary or need guidance, consider reaching out to a funeral home or professional obituary writer for assistance. They can help you craft a beautiful tribute that honors your loved one.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Absolutely! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Just be sure to properly attribute any copyrighted material.

How do I proofread an obituary for errors?

Carefully review the text for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. It's also a good idea to have someone else review it for accuracy and clarity before submitting it for publication.

What if I need to correct an error in an already-published obituary?

Contact the newspaper or online platform where the obituary was published as soon as possible. They may be able to issue a correction or reprint the revised version.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing news of a loved one's passing and connecting with friends and family. Just be sure to respect any privacy settings or restrictions.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

Maintain a copy of the original text and any accompanying photos or documents. You may also want to consider creating a permanent archive or memorial page on a website or social media platform.

What if I'm unsure about what information to include in an obituary?

Talk to family members, friends, or a funeral home for guidance. They can help you determine what details are most important and how to present them in a respectful and meaningful way.

Can I include personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Personal stories and memories can bring depth and humanity to an obituary. Just be sure to keep them concise and respectful.