Jennifer S. Grimes, 66
On April 17, 2021, Jennifer Grimes, age 66, passed away peacefully at her beloved home in the woods, surrounded by her children, caregivers and hospice team. She is survived by her son and his partner, Jason and Mauro; daughters and their husbands, Sara and James and Martha and Chris. Jennifer had five loving grandchildren: Alexandra, Austin, Sam, Pierce and Cash.
Jennifer was born in Toledo, Ohio, and spent her childhood with her mother, Barbara, and two younger brothers, Rick and Bill in Genoa, Ohio. She had many talents as a youngster, playing instruments, acting in dramatic arts, and dressmaking in the swinging 1960s. She graduated from Genoa High in 1972. She was a talented pianist, earning a music scholarship to Ohio State University and later using her musicality in church choirs where her mezzo-soprano voice could shine. As a teen, Jenny’s affection for adventure and traveling took her to Tennessee, then to San Diego, where her memories of young love and youthfulness were formed.
Jennifer had a pioneering spirit and she fell in love with the wild and remote landscapes of Northern Idaho after visiting in 1973 with her first husband, Mark. It is here that she cultivated her roots, raising her three children while attending North Idaho College and eventually establishing a career as a computer software analyst and programmer. She was part of a small percentage of women to join the IT field in the early 1980s, something for which she was always very proud. She rounded out her 30-year career with the City of Spokane in 2013, spending the last eight years enjoying her dream home and spending precious time with her kids and grandkids.
Jennifer was always very active in Coeur d’Alene, spending her younger years with Lutheran Church of the Master and volunteering in the community with various organizations. She spent 10 years with the Ironman Triathlon, several years with AARP Tax Aide, and with the 2020 Census. Her real passion was membership with the Idaho Forest Owners Association, where she organized and participated in numerous forestry activities and events while meeting like-minded stewards of the land and making new friends. Jennifer’s neighbors were also dear to her heart as she finally found the community she longed for as a single, independent woman. She cherished her time with these ventures, and we know she will be missed greatly by those she ran with.
Jennifer was a beautifully steadfast woman who taught her children everything from compassion and empathy to stubbornness and self-reliance for making your own way in this world. She was a tough and resilient person who withstood many hardships and always managed to get back up, no matter how hard she fell. She touched many people’s lives in her 66 years and, while her earthly presence will be greatly missed, her spirit will live on in all of us. She is home now in the Kingdom of Heaven with her cherished family who have passed before her. She is one with the wind, the land, the water, fire, and the magnificent stars now and forever. Be at peace, Mom – we will love you always.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to Hospice of North Idaho can be made in her name (hospiceofnorthidaho.org/donate/). This organization was of immeasurable aid during Jennifer’s last days, providing extensive care, compassion and comfort. We must help these services stay in our community because they were the key to Jennifer’s staying at home and in comfort with the highest quality of life. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who helped our family with meals, flowers, prayers, and all loving thoughts during these last few months. Finally, thank you to First Light Home Care for giving Jennifer amazing caregiving – she loved every minute she spent with you all.
A private gathering at her home will be held for family and close friends to honor her passing. Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Jennifer’s online memorial and sign her guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.