Suzanne Chambliss, 76

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Suzanne Chambliss, a great mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister and friend. She passed away Dec. 31, 2021, in the early afternoon in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Sue was born April 26, 1945, in North Tonawanda, N.Y., daughter of Albert and Ruth Smith Stickney. During her years in school, she was an accomplished clarinet player, member of the Amvets Precision Marching Team, a Girl Scout and was involved in many volunteer events/organizations.

Sue remained in the western New York area raising her son, Russell and working numerous jobs, all giving her the background for what was yet to come. In the early 1980s, she moved to Florida and opened a successful construction related business. It was there that she met Roy Chambliss and her life changed forever.

Sue and Roy moved to Idaho in 2001 where they built their own house in the rural community of Athol, Idaho. It was there that Sue met so many of the friends that have become family to her. Sue and Roy enjoyed motorcycle racing, spending many weekends traveling to different states to compete. Roy did the racing while Sue made the sandwiches and kept everyone in the stands fed and entertained.

After Roy’s death in 2009, Sue began a new chapter in her life. She continued her career in the medical transcription field but also returned to volunteering for many groups that she had interest in. She volunteered at the Habitat for Humanity Restore, helped to pick up trash on roadsides with the Lions Club, participated in Fourth of July celebrations, served coffee and donuts to travelers with the Right to Life Organization and kept busy giving her time wherever and whenever needed.

Sue was an active and beloved member of the First Lutheran Church of Spirit Lake. Over the years, she held many positions within the congregation and was blessed to be able to be part of the Wednesday morning Bible study that was held at the Village at Orchard Ridge Senior Living Home. She was especially proud to be part of the team to oversee the construction of the new church building.

Sue also enjoyed visiting with family and friends. When visiting in New York with her son and grandchildren, Sue loved staying busy by sharing stories, enjoying family meals and doing activities with family. Sue loved to remind all around her to take time to stop and smell the roses.

Sue was predeceased by her mother (Ruth), father (Albert) and her husband (Roy). She is survived by her son, Russell of Galway, N.Y.; grandchildren, Danny Howe (Holli) of Orangeburg, S.C.; Ashley Howe (Jesse) of Ballston Spa, N.Y.; Amanda Frederick (Don) of Galway, N.Y.; sisters, Joanne Mangis of Chandler, Ariz.; Kathy Stec (Tom) of Milpitas, Calif.; four great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sue’s family would like to offer deep appreciation to those who remained close to her during her final time over the past weeks.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022, at First Lutheran Church, 6075 W. Jefferson St., Spirit Lake, Idaho 83869. A reception will follow.

If desired, friends can make donations to the charity of their choice.

Please visit Sue’s online memorial and sign her guestbook at yatesfuneralhomes.com.