Bernita Jane (Foss) Quinn
Bernita Jane (Foss) Quinn, passed away July 15, 2018, in Spokane, Wash.
She was born in Priest River, Idaho, on Nov. 2, 1932, to Clarence and Grace (Nacca-rato) Foss, and was preceded in death by her husband Phillip Quinn, and her sisters, Donna Low, and Karen Crickman.
She grew up in the small town on the river where she enjoyed the outdoors, family, and lifelong friendships. After high school she attended Kinman Business School in Spokane, and later worked at the Cabinet Gorge Dam and Albeni Falls Dam where, as her family jokes, she was a “dam secretary.”
Bernita spent her time in Spokane raising her family. She enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren (bread-butter-sugar sandwiches), reading, travel, her “lunch bunch,” and spending time at the cabin on the river. She was a wonderful host at the cabin, and family and friends would gather there every weekend in the summer to enjoy potlucks, coffee and conversation at the kitchen table. She was the official maker of the family favorite potato salad. She especially enjoyed the 4th of July gatherings where crowds of family and friends would enjoy the day with food, swimming, learning to walk on stilts, fishing and horseshoes.
Our Mom was always giving of herself, via her time or financial support, to make things better. Whether helping family or working to organize Naccarato family reunions that benefit restoration projects in Priest River, she supported many charities including children’s homes, veterans and various food banks.
She is survived by her children, Kevin Quinn and Leslie Barrett (Al); her grandchildren, Karissa Quinn (Jason Clark), and Jace and Matt Barrett (Dianne Lafaurie). Special thanks to all her caregivers, especially our “Mama Vicky,” Amy and Holly, and to “neighbor Dawn” and Cindy for all you have done.
A celebration of her life will be Aug. 25, 2018, at 12 p.m. at the Sherman-Campbell Funeral Home in Priest River. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Priest River Food Bank, http://foodbank83864.com/, or charity of your choice. A reception will follow at Popeye’s after a graveside service.
Sherman-Campbell Funeral and Cremation Services in Newport, Wash., is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at shermancampbell.com.