Valerie Ployhar, 38

She was the oldest of four children and was a wonderful big sister who loved her brother and two sisters.

The name Valerie means strong, brave and healthy, and it was chosen for this special meaning. Our Valerie was strong and brave, but sadly, not healthy.

Regardless, Valerie accomplished much in her life. She received her bachelor’s degree in history at Boise State University. Unfortunately, during her Master’s Program in 2010, her health declined significantly and we brought her back home to Hayden, Idaho, to begin the search for a diagnosis. It took five long years of research and traveling to multiple medical professionals before Valerie finally got diagnosed with MCAS, along with other autoimmune diseases.

Valerie spent most of her days painting, baking and tutoring several students. She also loved writing and published a few books on Amazon in 2024.

Family was the most important thing to Valerie, as was her faith in God. She is survived by her parents, Robert and Beth Ployhar; brother and sister-in-law Stephen and Rebekah Ployhar; sister and brother-in-law Matt and Katie Buonocore; sister Sara Ployhar; nieces Isaiah, Ezra and Evelyn; and many beloved extended family and dear friends.

Special thanks to Dr. Janet Gourley, Ironwood Family Practice, Dr. Mueller, the doctors and team at Kootenai Medical, who took such special care of her and Hospice of North Idaho, which provided special careful assistance in her passing.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of North Idaho in memory of Valerie.

Please View and sign Valerie's online Memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.