Deanna Mitchell, 72

Deanna K. Mitchell

We regret to inform Deanna's family and friends of her passing.

Deanna K. (Odelin) Mitchell, 72, a resident of Post Falls, passed away Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Guardian Angel Homes in Post Falls, after several years of dementia.

Deanna was born Oct. 1, 1953, in Moscow to Bernard and Dorothy (Ackerman) Odelin. Deanna attended the Potlatch schools and graduated from Potlatch High School in 1971 as Valedictorian. She graduated from the nursing program in Lewiston and received her bachelor’s degree in nursing. She also received her master’s degree in Pocatello. Deanna continued her education all her life. She later got her teaching degree and taught elementary school in Penryn, Calif.

Deanna later retired and started playing golf, which she really enjoyed. Deanna was quite musical, played many instruments and loved to sing in the car. She enjoyed watching Eastern Washington Eagles football as her nephew, Aaron Best, is the head football coach. She married Patrick Mitchell in Potlatch in 1972. They divorced in 2004. Deanna loved reading; she also enjoyed knitting, crocheting and embroidery. The impact of Deanna's nurturing presence was far-reaching, and she will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.

She is survived by two children: Andrew (Jeff) Mitchell, in California, and Samantha (David) Tillman, also of California; a sister, Molly Best (Terry), of Post Falls; a nephew, Aaron (Kim) Best, and a grandnephew, Tank; and grandnieces Tenli and Texis. Deanna was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Jeanette Rogers.

At Deanna’s request, there will be no formal services held. The family suggests contributions to the Potlatch Ambulance Fund, P.O. Box 63, Potlatch, ID 83855.

Bell Tower Funeral Home of Post Falls is in charge of arrangements.