Lisbeth Ann (Whipple) Stromberg, 88

Lisbeth Ann (Whipple) Stromberg, age 88, of Post Falls, Idaho, passed away Jan. 27, 2021, at Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, after a very brief but intense illness (not COVID) that she faced with a determined and brave smile.

Sue, as she was known by family and friends, was born to Eugena Pilkington Whipple and William H. Whipple in Mitchell, S.D., on Oct. 11, 1932. She grew up and graduated high school in Highmore, S.D., along with siblings Virginia, Robert, Patricia, Janice, Judith, William and Miriam. Many were the stories of growing up in that time, in that place and some of the ensuing escapades!

After moving to California in the 1950s, Sue worked for United State National Bank, Crocker Bank and Wells Fargo Bank, working in the banking industry for 33 years until she retired in 1989. She was known as a wonderful, firm and knowledgeable supervisor (thank you Lucy!)

Sue married Merle Stromberg in 1972 and lived in Long Beach, across the street from the ocean, in sight of the RMS Queen Mary. After retiring they moved to Post Falls (Merle had been from Potlatch, Idaho) and never looked back.

After Merle passed away Sue wanted to travel, but she was hesitant to be around other people. Finally, she gathered some courage to try new things and joined the Rambling Rovers, ready for new adventures and making new friends. From the Amish communities in the Midwest, to the Panama Canal, to the wilds of Alaska, she traveled! The luncheons, meetings and helping in the office for the Rovers kept her involved and active.

There was always a huge soft spot in Sue’s heart for dogs; she owned many and helped support many, many more. She was a private, shy person, kind, humble, yet strong-willed and not afraid to let you know where she stood on an issue, yet there was no mistaking her friendship if you were so blessed with it. And she must have owned stock in Hallmark — never did an occasion slip by without a card from her!

Sue is survived by her dear and closest friends, Nancy Clampet and husband, Jim Clampet, of Post Falls, and their children, Sarah King of Coeur d’Alene and David Clampet of Spirit Lake, whom she referred to as her “Idaho family,” as well as her friends John and Theresa House of St. Maries, and her sister, Janice.

Per Sue’s request, there will be no service but there will be an informal gathering of friends on a yet-to-be-determined date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Kootenai Humane Society or Hospice of North Idaho.