Jirina Jean Deremer, 76

Jirina Jean Deremer, 76, passed away, in Sandpoint, Idaho, on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023.

Jean was born in Czechoslovakia on March 5, 1947, in the city of Pilzer (where the brewery is located). Jean was raised by her single mother and grandparents in that communist country and claimed that she was weaned on beer. Jean called herself a “cancelled check.” This shows her sense of humor.

In 1972, she left the country and went through Yugoslavia to Italy, where she was placed in a refugee camp for three months awaiting papers to allow her to enter the U.S. as a legal immigrant. Upon arriving in the U.S., she lived in southern California for two years, before moving to Las Vegas, where she was employed by casinos for over 29 years. Hence her love of cards and games of any kind. She was currently learning bridge at the Senior Center and picking up the game quickly. 

In 2013, Jean retired and moved to North Idaho at her friends’ suggestion. She purchased a mobile home and set it up on her friend’s property. After a trip to Las Vegas to handle some final details, she returned to Idaho to learn that her mobile home had been taken over by her friend and rented without her permission.

Jean then became homeless, living out of her truck for several weeks. She said that thankfully it was during the summer. She told a friend of her situation and her friend offered to contact her sister to see if she might live with her as she was recovering from a stroke and the family needed someone to be with her. Jean lived with the friend’s sister until her death.

Once again, Jean was in a situation with no place to live. Thanks to a member of Jean’s church, the New Song Bible Church, in Sagle, she was offered a camping trailer where she resided until just recently when she moved to Alpine Vista Apartments. Alpine Vista was the first real home she had in a long time.

During the period of being homeless, Jean discovered the Sandpoint Senior Center. Often it provided the only meal she would have. It was there that she was welcomed by everyone and began volunteering her services, delivering meals and helping out.

The senior center became a huge part of her life. She played pinochle and cribbage and organized groups to partake in puzzles and games. Jean enjoyed meeting people, volunteering and having a delicious meal at the Senior Center. 

She was later hired by the Senior Center to work a few hours a week. She was still employed when she suffered a stroke and never regained consciousness.

We will miss her so — her sharp wit and friendly demeanor and caring ways. A celebration of her life will be held at the Sandpoint Senior Center, 820 Main St., at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 20. All are welcome to say farewell to our friend.

Family and friends are invited to sign Jean’s online guest book at www.coffeltfuneral.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Coffelt Funeral Service.