Diane Cheryl Gartrell

Diane Cheryl (Ekwortzell) Gartrell was born November 1, 1943, in Sandpoint, Idaho, to John and Lillian (Parkins) Ekwortzell. She died unexpectedly on September 10, 2025. She considered herself fortunate to have grown up a “Sandpoint kid” in the 1950s. Starting her education at Lincoln School, Diane developed her lifelong love for learning. She attended Sandpoint High School and was active in student activities including the Ponderettes, Student Council, and Cedar Post, graduating with the class of 1962. After a year at the University of Idaho, Diane returned to Sandpoint. She worked for Schweitzer and then Sandpoint Motors prior to moving to New York state to work for General Electric.

Following a transfer with GE to Seattle, Diane met co-worker Russ Gartrell. They were married in 1971. Russ and Diane lived in Seattle, Spokane and then Sandpoint, eventually building their forever home that she lovingly called Ravenwood Farm.

An animal lover, Diane felt a deep concern for the well-being of all creatures. She shared her life with numerous pets, treasuring every dog and cat she ever owned, especially her beloved Doodles. Horse-crazy from the start, Diane’s dreams of owning horses came true as an adult. Over the years she had many horses and enjoyed the countless hours spent in the barn.

Diane was an avid gardener, devoting endless hours each year to her impressive flower and vegetable gardens. She had a keen eye for interior design and her home was beautifully decorated for each season. An accomplished cook and baker, Diane continually added new recipes to her collection of old favorites. Many luncheons and dinners were hosted at her home with much thought and care put into each occasion.

Diane had the opportunity to visit many interesting places, including New Zealand and Chile, when Russ’s work took him abroad. Additionally, they shared an unforgettable month-long European adventure. However, her fondest travel memories were with Russ as they explored the United States and Canada in their motorhome.

From her fellow animal advocates, to the Girls of ‘62, to her Book Club “family”, to the girls who live across the road, Diane had friends in many arenas. She will be missed.

Russ preceded Diane in death in 2017 after nearly 46 years of marriage. Survivors include her brothers Ross, Vance (Pat), and Dennis, all of Sandpoint; her sister-in-law Janet Gartrell of Annapolis, Maryland; step-son Mark (Cricket) Gartrell also of Annapolis. She is also survived by her niece, Tricia Ekwortzell-Wells (Ryan) of Yuma, Arizona, and her Sandpoint cousins Patty McGovern and Mike, Cathy and Jack Parkins. Finally, she is survived by her Doodles, Murphy and Abigail.

Following cremation, Diane will be buried at Pinecrest Cemetery in a private ceremony. Family and friends are invited to an open house celebration of Diane’s life at her home on Saturday, September 27th between 2pm-5pm.

Memorials are suggested to Panhandle Special Needs Inc.