Wednesday, October 09, 2024
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Calvin Frank DeHaas, 62

| October 9, 2024 1:00 AM

Calvin Frank DeHaas, age 62, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, passed away Oct. 2, 2024, after a courageous yearlong battle with cancer. Calvin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, coach and a man of God. His faith and strength carried him through his illness, and he continued to be an inspiration to those around him.

Born and raised in Greencreek, Idaho, Calvin graduated from Prairie High School in Cottonwood in 1980 and North Idaho College in 1982, where he attended on a track and field scholarship. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Idaho in 2004.

Calvin married Lorraine (Lorrie) Beyer on April 26, 1986, in Coeur d'Alene. Together, they built a loving family and life. Calvin owned and operated Cal's Custom Auto Body from 1986 to 1998 before transitioning to a teaching role at North Idaho College as the auto body instructor. He retired in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and skill.

He had a passion for coaching basketball at all levels, from Parks and Rec to AAU, special needs tournaments, high school and at the college level. He also coached Little League baseball and junior tackle football. Calvin’s athletic achievements included winning the 1979 State Championship for shot put. He was an assistant coach for North Idaho College’s 2011 National Championship team. He also received several prestigious industry awards. 

Calvin’s greatest joys were spending time with friends and family, cheering on the Mariners and giving his grandkids tractor rides. Bappa Cal loved his role as patriarch of the family. Cal was so proud of his kids, their families and their accomplishments as educators. He was a BSF leader and a dedicated member of Real Life Ministries since 2002. Calvin's faith guided his every step.

Calvin is survived by his wife of 38 years, Lorraine (Lorrie) DeHaas of Coeur d'Alene; his four children, daughter Kristin (Nathan) Tuttle, grandsons Sutton and Dayton of Coeur d'Alene; daughter Kelsi Gonzalez, (Angelo) of Post Falls; son Kaleb DeHaas, (Madeline) granddaughter Louella DeHaas of Kuna, and son Kolby DeHaas of Havre de Grace, Md. His mother, Rena Rosella DeHaas of Grangeville; sister Judy DeHaas of Grangeville; sister Arlene Baerlocher (Joe) Baerlocher of Greencreek; sister-in-law Michelle Sperber (Tim) of Genesee; and sister-in-law Judi Mclaughlin of Spokane. Uncle Cal leaves behind one niece and four nephews. Calvin was preceded in death by his loving father, Frank DeHaas.  

The family would like to thank Beacon Clinic and Hospice of North Idaho for their care and support throughout the last year. 

A celebration of life will be held Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. at Real Life Ministries, Building Two, 1860 N. Cecil Road, Post Falls, ID 83854. A livestream will be available for those unable to attend. Viewing will be held Friday, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to noon at Yates Funeral Home on Fourth Street. Arrangements were provided by Yates Funeral Home. An online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.