LaValla (Val) Trapp, 70

Lavalla (Val) Elizabeth Trapp, 70, a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully July 17, 2025, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, at home after a courageous battle against cancer. She was born July 5, 1955, in Coeur d'Alene, to Ethel Denham and William Custer.

Val spent her early years traveling across the United States with her mother and siblings, creating a lifetime of diverse experiences, including growing up on a game farm with her bear, tiger and monkey. She later settled in Yakima, Wash., where she lovingly raised her four children while working diligently for Yakima County.

In a testament to her caring nature, Val moved back to her hometown of Coeur d'Alene to care for her Daddy and stepmother Adele. She dedicated several years to public service before retiring in 2022 from the Kootenai County Jail, where even the inmates were fond of "Ms. Trapp."

She loved cooking for her family and enjoyed sharing her recipes with all who wanted them. Spending time combing the West Coast beaches for driftwood or simply enjoying the local beaches brought her joy. She loved being surrounded by family and friends and having gatherings at her house. 

Val's legacy lives on through her devoted family. She is survived by her three children, Ted Trapp (Dana), Laneil Trapp (Gino) and Echo Sandefur (Kyle). She also leaves behind eight cherished grandchildren and nine precious great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. Over the years, she also "adopted" many other kids who called her Mom because she treated them as her own.

Val was preceded in death by her youngest son, Bill Custer, her parents, Bill, Ethel and Adele, her siblings, Dorothy, Phyllis and Fred, and many dear friends. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Celebration of life to be determined. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Humane Society.

    Trapp