Donna Stickney, 89

Donna, a third-generation North Idaho resident, passed away peacefully Oct. 21, 2025, at the age of 89, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 9, 1936, in Wardner, Idaho, Donna was the eldest child of Audrey and Harry Jenkins. She grew up alongside her sister, Sandy, in the Seattle and Coeur d’Alene areas, spending many cherished days with her grandparents, Mae and Charlie Carder, and her cousin, Jean Carder. She loved riding horses, was an accomplished ballerina and a roller-skating enthusiast. 

Donna graduated from Holy Names Academy in Seattle and carried her faith with her throughout her life. While helping care for her grandfather in Dalton Gardens, she met the love of her life, Ron Stickney, at the Boots and Saddle Café in Coeur d’Alene. They were married at St. Thomas Catholic Church in Coeur d’Alene in August 1954 — the rest is history, including several Forest Service transfers and the births of four children.

Ron’s career with the Forest Service took the family to Bozeman, Mont. Though Donna wasn’t initially fond of the cold winters, she soon came to love the community and made many lifelong friends there.

Eventually, Donna and Ron returned to the Coeur d’Alene area, settling in Riverside Harbor near their daughter, Teresa, and Donna’s sister, Sandy. They loved cheering on the Gonzaga Bulldogs basketball team and were devoted Seahawks and Mariners fans, rarely missing a game.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ron, and her son, Todd; her parents, Harry and Audrey; and her sister, Sandy. She is survived by her children, Teresa (Mark), Tamara and Scott (Tammy); her cousin and dear friend, Jean Ellis, and cousins Carole Hensley (Dave), Steven Kottkey (Diana); brother-in-law Jim Stickney; granddaughters Kristen (Marc), Megan (Joe), Nicole (Shamus) and Kelsey; and great-grandchildren Audrey, Emi, Sam, Leo and Baby Reilly.

Donna lived her life with a kind heart and just the right amount of sass — leaving behind love, laughter and wonderful memories for all who knew her.

A memorial luncheon for the family was held at The Coeur d’Alene Resort, and an internment service will be held at a later date.

Donations in Donna’s name may be made to Horizon Hospice and Palliative Care in Spokane or to the Post Falls Food Bank.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Homes. wwww.yatesfuneralhomes.com.