Ronald E. Washburn,74

Ronald E. Washburn, age 74, passed away at Bella Angel Residential Care in Coeur d’Alene, ID, on June 1, 2017.

Ron was born in Spokane, WA, on April 14, 1943, to Robert W. and Bernice (Brooten) Washburn. He was raised in Coeur d’Alene and graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1961. Ron married Kathleen A. Mueller on April 7, 1961, in Coeur d’Alene, ID.

Ron attended North Idaho Junior College for 2 years and then Eastern Washington State College earning a bachelor’s degree in Instrumental Music Education. In 1965, they moved to Colfax, WA, where he taught band at the junior high and high school. In 1969, they moved to Lewiston and taught at Sacajawea Junior High. In 1993, they moved to Rose Lake, ID. He went to work at the Anchor House as a counselor and taught at the Adult Learning Center at North Idaho College, retiring in 2005.

He enjoyed Artistic Black Smithing and demonstrated for 30 years at the Old Mission Skills Fair in Cataldo, ID. He also enjoyed playing the guitar, wood working, reading, and gardening.

Ron is survived by his wife, Kathleen of Cataldo, ID; 2 children: Lisa Washburn of Troy, ID and Andrea and husband John Gibson of Post Falls, ID; 2 grandchildren Annie and Ben Gibson; Lisa’s significant other Brian Dennis.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be made to Auburn Crest Hospice, 1221 W Ironwood Dr #102, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

The family would like to thank Kim, Winter, Melissa, and April at Bella Angel for their wonderful care and compassion.

A family gathering will be held at a later date.

English Funeral Chapel, Coeur d’Alene, ID, is in charge of the arrangements.