Deanna Marie Short, 85

Deanna Marie Short, 85, of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, passed away peacefully March 28, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and staff at Sunset Home Assisted Living in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.  

Born at home Feb. 19, 1940, in Martin’s Ferry, Ohio, Deanna was a shining light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She was the most generous and kind person you could ever meet — her loving heart and gentle spirit were a comfort to all. She gave freely without hesitation and always put others before herself. Her infectious laugh and radiant smile could brighten any room, and her presence was a gift to those around her. She was resilient, courageous, and graceful in the face of life’s challenges.

Deanna was preceded in death by the love of her life and first husband, Gary William Short; and her second husband, Pete Dyke. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and an older brother and older sister. 

Family was everything to Deanna. She loved being a wife, a mom, a grandmother, and great-grandmother, and she poured her heart into each of those roles. Her life was filled with warmth, love, and laughter, and her legacy of kindness, compassion, generosity, and strength lives on in those she loved. 

She is survived by her children, Butch Short of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Chip Short of Sandpoint, Idaho, Suzie Johnson of Spokane, Wash., Cindy Ryan of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, and Steve Short of Maricopa, Ariz.; 24 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends who will miss her deeply. 

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. at North Summit Church, 201 N. Division Ave., Sandpoint. The service will be followed by a meal and fellowship in her honor.

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

Arrangements are under the care of Coffelt Funeral Service.