Debra Jean Samsel

Debra Jean Samsel (Tootie), 59, of Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho passed away of natural causes on December 14th in her home. She was born to Betty Balliot and Dalbert Yearout in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho on December 29th, 1954. She grew up in Coeur d’ Alene and Saint Maries Idaho where she graduated from St. Maries High School in 1974 and then went on to join the United States Navy where she served for 4 years in Hawaii. After her service in the Navy she went on to complete her Bachelors of Science degree from The University of La Verne while living in San Diego. In 1995 she moved back to Coeur d’ Alene where she worked in various sawmills around the area. Her last place of employment was Center Partners where she worked from 2007 to 2014. In 1997 she purchased her home in downtown Coeur d’ Alene where she enjoyed renovating the home and other various projects in and out of the home. She enjoyed sailing, working on cars, landscaping and sewing. She had a special place in her heart for stray and abandoned animals, particularly cats. She had a very generous spirit and would do her best to give to those who had less. She is survived by her mother Betty, her sisters Diana and Dolores and their husbands and her brother David all of northern Idaho, as well as numerous nieces and nephews from all across the county. She is also survived by her daughter Colleen and her husband and beloved grandson Sawyer. She is preceded in death by her brother Daniel and her father Dalbert. Memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 20th at His Place Church, 3079 East 16th Ave, Post Falls, Idaho at 2pm. In lieu of flowers we ask that you make a donation to the Kootenai County Humane Society.