M. Ardelle Holmquist, 85

Ardelle was born on March 1, 1929, in Lake Preston, S.D., to Kenneth and Violet Jones. She moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where she was raised. Ardelle attended Coeur d'Alene High School and enjoyed cheerleading. 

During this time, Ardelle had a strong desire to "fly" and obtained her pilots license at the age of 16. She also attained her cosmetology license as well. Ardelle loved to dance and attended Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, Wash., to further her talent. She went on to open Ardelle's School of Dance in Coeur d'Alene and Spokane.

In 1950, Ardelle married the love of her life, Ronald Holmquist. They were blessed with three children - Rhonda, Ron and Karen. 

Ardelle was involved in the procurement of funds to establish Spokane Valley Hospital. She was also a member of the Suburbanites, and helped raise money to support the Ronald McDonald House as well as other charitable organizations.

Ardelle was an important part of the family business: Door Distributors of Spokane. She was well respected and loved by the "Door Distributors Family." Her family and friends came first, and Ardelle dedicated her life to make those around her were happy. She celebrated life.

We will miss you, Ardelle, and forever and always have you in our hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ken and Vi Jones; brother, Marvin Jones; and granddaughter, Tami Holmquist. Ardelle is survived by her husband, Ronald; children and their spouses: Rhonda and John Esco, Ron and  Barbara Holmquist, Jr., and Karen and Ed Groce; five grandchildren; three step-grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and nine step-great grandchildren. 

Services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, July 17, at English Funeral Chapel of Coeur d'Alene, 1133 N. Fourth St., Coeur d'Alene. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Ardelle's memory may be made to the Ronald McDonald House. Please visit M. Ardelle's online memorial atwww.englishfuneralchapel.com