Ida’s obit doesn’t tell whole story

In her Main Street column today, Kerri Thoreson comments on the legacy of the late Ida Hawkins, 94, who died June 13:

“Public servant, social justice activist, and daughter of Idaho pioneers, Ida Louise (Daugharty) Hawkins, 94, passed away at her home of 61 years in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on June 13, 2016.”

“While the first line of Ida Hawkins’ obituary is descriptive, it doesn’t do justice to the many layers of impact this incredible woman had on our community. She was a beautiful woman who shaped many lives, the mother of two of my friends, Bob and Betsy. In recent days Betsy and I were chatting about Ida and about my late father, Ron Rankin.

“Two people could not have been more diametrically opposed on political philosophy but they shared a mutual respect for the other.

“Ida volunteered at the blood bank and my father was a prolific lifelong donor. Recalled Betsy, “I still smile when I remember watching your dad and my mom at the blood bank laughing and enjoying each other. They both shared a passion for history, service, veterans, community.”

“In this time of uncivil political discourse I think we’d all do well to emulate the example of Ida and Ron. There’s always common ground.

“A memorial service for Ida is at 11 a.m. Friday at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church on Wallace Avenue following her internment at 9:30 a.m. at historic Forest Cemetery, not far from the Civil War statue and just a few yards from my father’s final resting place. I think they will both enjoy the company.

“Read Ida Hawkins’ full obituary at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com for an inspiring story of a life well-lived.” Full column here.

Question: Do you have many friends who disagree with you politically?