Danna Roberta Sutton Harris, 81

Danna Roberta Sutton Harris passed away Friday, May 13, 2016, after a sudden and brief decline in her health. She had recently celebrated her 81st birthday.

She was born in Tacoma, Wash., on April 2, 1935, to Daniel and Mable (Young) Sutton. Danna grew up an only child. Due to her parents chosen professions of managing hotels and then owning a nursing home in the Spokane area, she grew up with a unique childhood background.

Cheating death as a child, Danna recovered from a three-story fall off the roof of a building. A mere 8 years old at the time. She struck the fire escape as she fell, which was attributed to slowing her enough to survive the ordeal. Additional injuries occurred when she landed in a box of glass milk bottles, lacerating her abdomen.

Her life of being tough as nails thus began. She lived life to the fullest, pulling no punches in her social and professional relationships. Loving life and everyone in it, Danna rarely held a grudge, and in time felt forgiveness was the only way to live a full, happy and successful time on Earth.

Real Estate was Danna’s chosen profession, which also became her passion. She won numerous awards for her work. Singing and acting in local theater groups were pure joy for her. Her love of the Lord was the foundation for her life, being a member of Faith Presbyterian Church in Hayden, Idaho, for many decades.

Danna was married to Charles (Chuck) Harris for 24 years before his death in 2005. Alzheimer’s claimed the love of her life and because of that, she would go on to care for others afflicted with the disease. Sadly, dementia eventually took over Danna’s thoughts and life, as well.

Her final days were spent in the care of the Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene. The professional and loving staff of the facility were of great comfort to those who visited and sat with Danna through her last days and hours. The facility not only cared for Danna, but also all who walked through their doors, with their kind words, attention to detail and willingness to explain everything being done. It was greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

A memorial celebration of Danna’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2016. It will take place at the Faith Presbyterian Church, 9485 N. Maple St., Hayden. An informal gathering will follow after the service.

Anyone wishing to make a monetary donation, in Danna’s name, or a donation of time, by volunteering, consider the Hospice House/Hospice of North Idaho, 9493 N. Government Way, Hayden, ID 83835.

Please take the time to express your love and appreciation to those most important in your life. We have no promise of tomorrow, nor that the memories of said loved ones will remain intact. They need to hear and feel your love often.

Live, Love, Laugh and most importantly, Forgive.