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Theodore G. Runberg ‘Ted,’ 84

Theodore G. Runberg “Ted,” 84, passed away Tuesday, May 30, 2017, at Rose Terrace Facility in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Ted was born July 24, 1932, to Eric and Marjorie (King) Runberg in Potlatch, Idaho, and the oldest of three children.

He was raised in the “Company Town” of Potlatch, graduating from high school in 1951. Ted attended the University of Idaho, graduating from there in 1955. Ted and Jeanne McAlexander were married in 1954 and together they had four children, they later divorced.

Ted served two years in the U.S. Army, stationed at Fort Monroe, Va. Returning to Clark-ston, Wash., he started his educational career as a teacher, and then moved to Spokane, Wash., working as an Administrator for the Spokane School District. Ted took an early retirement and became a landscaper for a few years. In 1989, he went back into education as he was hired as an elementary guidance counselor for the Bonner County School District in Priest River, Idaho.

At this time, he met Rita (Roberts) Rusho and they were married in 1995. Together they enjoyed traveling, gardening and entertaining at their home on the Pend Oreille River. Ted was also very interested and involved in working in the local area on economic development.

Ted is survived by his wife, Rita; a brother, Donald; a sister, Kay; daughter Kristine (Jeff) Smith; sons Mark (Dee), Todd and Brian (Katie) Runberg; stepsons Geoffrey (Linda), Scott (Tammie) and Keith (Tracy) Rusho; 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

At Ted’s request, there will be no service. The family will gather later in the summer for a celebration of his life and burial.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Ted’s memorial and sign his online guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.