Monty Spencer, 77

It is with a heavy heart we announce that Monty Spencer has gone to be with the Lord. He was a strong gentleman who has been battling sickness for more than 20 years. He was born in Monterey Park, Calif., on April 8, 1945.

He married his wife, Caren, in 1964 and had two sons, Darin and Randy. In 1975, he moved his family to Hayden, Idaho, to open his business, Northwest Swiss. He always gave everyone a second chance, and sometimes a third and fourth. He loved his employees and was quite proud of them — especially Mike and Jesse.

He was quite active at Real Life Ministries when he was physically able. He was also a chaplain at the Kootenai County Jail for 24 years. He died March 23, 2023, surrounded by family.

He is survived by his wife, Caren; sister Myrna; brother and sister-in-law, Dave and Peggy Esterly, and their son Rick; sons Darin and Randy, and their spouses; granddaughters Bryauna and Winter, and their husbands; and two great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of North Idaho. As Monty would say, Praise the Lord, I am home now!

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at Yates Funeral Home, 744 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene. Interment to follow at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.