Kelly Ann Walter, 53

Kelly Ann Walter, 53, died on Aug. 13, 2014, at the Hospice House after an extended illness.

Kelly was born June 28, 1961, in San Diego, Calif., to Charles W. Riley and Jere A. Riley.

On Aug. 17, 2002, Kelly married Neil Walter. While Kelly was healthy enough, they traveled extensively. Kelly and Neil spent part of several winters in Mexico, and Kelly grew to love the country and the people. If her health had permitted, Kelly would have wanted to live there.

Kelly cared about people. For many years, until she died, she helped support two children through Child Fund International.

Kelly was passionate about animals. She would only marry Neil if she could bring her cat. At the time, the cat was very old and Neil (not being especially fond of cats) figured the cat couldn't live much longer; so he agreed. Twelve years later the cat is still alive, and with Neil.

A highlight in Kelly's life occurred in Costa Rica. Kelly was sitting in a boat in a mangrove, when several monkeys came down to her from the trees above. They loved to play with her hair. Anything else she did on that trip was not nearly as meaningful as that encounter.

Kelly's illness began several years ago and progressed to being more debilitating and painful as time went by. Yet, in spite of the constant pain, Kelly refused to give up and she fought her disease until she died. She was truly a strong and courageous woman.

Kelly is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kristina and Shaun Rogers; grandchildren Darius and Alexandria Rogers, of Post Falls; parents Charles Riley and Jere Riley of Coeur d'Alene; brother Patrick Riley, and sister Julie Leonard of Coeur d'Alene; aunt and uncle, Sidney and Jack Matsueda of Coeur d'Alene; and aunt and uncle, Suzy and Dr. Bruce Bob of Sacramento, Calif.

Kelly did not want a funeral. Instead, she asked for a celebration of her life, and we have planned one. It will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2014, at Elks Lodge located on Prairie Avenue, just east of Ramsey Road. Anyone who wishes to attend, please RSVP Neil at 208-773-8153.