Saysha Lee Bertino – May 26, 1945 – April 30, 2017

On the evening of April 30th, 2017, Saysha Bertino peacefully passed in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho.

There are several ways to easily describe Saysha Bertino. It is safe to say that the first things anyone noticed was her grace, beauty, honesty, giving nature, loving personality, kind heart, gorgeous red hair, and smile. Those that knew her best not only experienced those amazing qualities, but so much more. She was also sassy, magnetic, funny, an “expert eye-roller”, and she incorporated the “Saysha flare” into everything she did. It is also important to mention that although she started as a self-proclaimed taco connoisseur, any person who tried her Russian twist on classic tacos quickly agreed. She truly was the best at making tacos, so that title is hers to keep.

Saysha was born on May 26, 1945 in Downey, California to Sara and William Suseoff. She graduated in 1963 from Earl Warren Senior High School. In 1964, she married Robert Valoff and they had two children, Sheryl and Bob. After several years, Robert, Saysha, Sheryl and Bob all relocated to Spokane, Washington, where in 1984, Robert passed away.

In 1993, Saysha married Frank C. Bertino. They were happily married for 24 years. Probably the person who best understood Saysha’s sassiness, humor, and expert eye rolling skills was Frank. Frank would lovingly joke with Saysha, and she would toss it right back with an eye roll and attitude. The love and happiness between them was infectious.

For many years Saysha worked as a retail clerk. She had a passion for stamping, card making, and shopping. She also loved Elvis Presley, collecting Hallmark Christmas ornaments, driving around (she said it made her feel free), and volunteering at the Christian Book Store in Spokane. Saysha’s early life in California also triggered her deep love for the ocean. She adored the beach, the waves, and most importantly, the sun.

Saysha is survived by her husband Frank of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; her two children, Bob and Sheryl Valoff of Spokane, Washington; her son-in-law, Scott Estill of Osburn, Idaho; her five grandchildren, Conner Crowe of Spokane, Washington; Elana, Danielle, Rachel, and Joshua Estill of Pinehurst, Idaho; and her great-granddaughter, Lilly Ramirez of Pinehurst, Idaho.

A celebration of life for Saysha will be held at Brookdale Senior Living Center in Coeur d’ Alene,

Idaho, on Saturday, May 13th, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.