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William Henry Von Behren Jr., 76

Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 1 hour, 10 minutes AGO
| August 30, 2026 1:00 AM

In Loving Memory of William “Bill” Von Behren Jr.

Today, we remember and celebrate the life of Bill Von Behren, who peacefully entered into eternal rest with the Lord on Aug. 7, 2026. Bill lived a life defined by love, humor, and the many small moments that made life meaningful.

Born on Dec. 23, 1949, in Santa Ana, Calif, he was the beloved son and only child of William Henry Von Behren and Mildred Elizabeth Von Behren. He was born and raised in Santa Ana and attended Santa Ana College. Bill began working at Medcom/Trainex in Cypress, Calif., in 1973. It was there that he met his wife, Sandy. Bill rose to the position of Director of Photography, filming nursing and patient education training courses.

In 1980, after vacationing in Spokane, Wash., with Sandy and their 1-year-old son, Bill made a decision that would shape the rest of their lives. Before the plane had even landed back in California, he told Sandy that they were moving north. He was determined to raise his family in North Idaho, and his vision became their reality. Bill worked in sales at KXLY in Spokane, at Stimson and Hauser Lake Lumber in Hauser Lake, Idaho, and retired from Itron in Liberty Lake, Wash., as shipping supervisor.

Bill was a man whose greatest accomplishment was not something measured by a title, a career, or possessions, but by the family he loved and the life he built with them. Bill was deeply involved in the lives of his children. He served as a Scout Master for the Boy Scouts in Post Falls and loved coaching them in soccer, football, basketball, and baseball. He was always proud to be on the sidelines, cheering them on and watching them grow.

Some of Bill’s happiest memories were made outdoors with his family. Camping on the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River brought countless adventures, laughter, and the kind of witty family memories that will be retold for years to come. Those times reflected so much of who Bill was — adventurous, playful, devoted, and happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved.

For 49 years, Bill shared his life with his beloved wife, Sandy.

Together, they built a marriage and a family filled with love, memories, and countless moments that became the story of their life together. Through all those years, Sandy was not only his wife but also his best friend, the person by his side through it all. Together, they played co-ed softball and volleyball in California and in Post Falls, Idaho.

Bill was a devoted father to his son, Eric Von Behren, and his daughter, Lindsay Von Behren. He loved them deeply and took pride in the people they became. His greatest joy continued with his grandson, EJ Von Behren, son of Eric, who held a very special place in his heart. Knowing his family name would continue through his grandson was a source of great pride and joy. His grandson carries that name forward as a lasting reminder of the bond they shared and the legacy his grandfather left behind.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Henry Von Behren, and his mother, Mildred Elizabeth Von Behren.

Bill is survived by his wife, Sandra Kay Von Behren; son Eric John Von Behren (wife Jennifer); grandson Eric (EJ) John Von Behren Jr.; and his daughter, Lindsay Marie Von Behren.

Bill’s life was a gift to those who knew him, but his greatest legacy will always be his family. He loved them and gave them a lifetime of memories to hold onto.

    Von Behren Jr