Donna E. Loudin

Donna E. Loudin, a loving mother, devoted grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on October 7,2024, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. She was born on September 1, 1935 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Martin and Darlene (Fortune) Brooks, Donna exemplified a life filled with love, laughter, and an commitment to her family and community.

As a teenager, Donna moved to Coeur d'Alene with her family due to her father's job at Knudtsen Chevrolet. She attended Coeur d'Alene High School where her outgoing and generous spirit began to shine. Known for her helpfulness and candid nature, Donna was never shy in sharing her opinions, ensuring that those around her always knew her thoughts. Her personality drew people in, making her a beloved figure among friends and family alike.

Professionally, Donna found her passion as a florist at Hughes Greenhouse in Post Falls, Idaho. There, she not only honed her skills in capturing nature's beauty through flowers but also formed lasting relationships with her clients and coworkers, who appreciated her vibrant energy and dedication.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life; she attended St. Pius X Catholic Church in Coeur d'Alene and was an active member of their knitting group. Additionally, Donna was passionate about gardening and spent countless joyous hours outdoors. For several years, she snow birded in Arizona. She loved to dance especially at the Eagles Lodge. 

Family was paramount to Donna. She never missed a birthday, showcasing her devotion to her loved ones through meaningful gestures that fostered deep connections. Donna is survived by her loving son Thomas Loudin of Post Falls, ID; her daughter Diane and her husband Bruce Smith of Coeur d'Alene, ID; her sons Chester and his wife Debbie Loudin of Belfair, WA; Michael and his wife Jill Loudin of Belfair, WA; son Gerald Loudin of Alaska; son Mark Loudin of Post Falls, ID; and son Patrick and his wife Laurie Loudin of Belfair, WA. Donna was a proud grandmother to twelve grandchildren, generous with her love as they filled her heart with joy, along with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She will be deeply missed by her brothers, Roger Brooks of Anchorage, AK, and Marty Brooks of Kentucky and her extended South Dakota family. Her passing leaves an ache in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her. She is predeceased by her parents, sister Sally Gamet, grandchild Casey, her former husband Thomas Loudin, and her close companion George Trotter.

A viewing will be held on October 15, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and a celebration of Donna’s life will take place the following day, October 16, 2024, at 2:00 PM at English Funeral Chapel, 1133 N. 4th St, Coeur d'Alene, ID. Donna's legacy of love and joy will surely live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to thank Storm for providing Communion to Donna weekly, neighbors Bill & Tinker and all of her friends and caregivers for all of their support.