Edythe Hazel Coyle

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Edythe Hazel Coyle, 94, of Spokane, WA, who went to be with her Lord and Savior on July 25, 2025. She was the only child of Harold and Hazel Rasmussen and married her husband Mike R. Coyle December of 1949 eloping at the Coeur D'Alene hitching post due to their religious differences. She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Daniel M. Coyle (1967), her son Robert H. Coyle (2021) and her youngest son David P. Coyle (2022).

She attended Bancroft grade school, Havermale Jr. High School, and graduated from North Central High School in 1949. After high school she attended Kelsey-Baird secondary school and obtained an office position at Greenough Grocery- the first grocery store in Spokane on 6th and Washington.

Edythe's life was defined by her boundless energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep commitment to family and community. Her journey was anything but linear-each chapter marked by bold transitions and heartfelt purpose.

As a young mother of four, Edythe balanced the demands of raising a family with hard work, taking on a job as a meat wrapper to help support her household. But her ambitions stretched far beyond that position. Alongside her husband Mike, they launched Mike's Pizza in Hillyard, an Italian restaurant that quickly became a beloved local spot. They ran the business for years, serving up slices and memories while their children grew up.

Always looking for their next project, Edythe and Mike ventured into real estate, founding La Petite Mobile Home Park in Mead, Washington. What began as a modest endeavor blossomed into one of the largest mobile home communities in the region, eventually expanding to nearly 200 units. They constructed pools and beautiful landscaping and it was a wonderful family community-including Edythe's own parents, Harold and Hazel, who spent their final years in the park enjoying what their daughter created. Mike and Edythe encouraged their children to invest in the park, instilling in them the values of hard work and creating a passion for real estate investment.

Edythe's generosity extended beyond business. In the 1980s and '90s, she and Mike approached the local fire department with a heartfelt idea: to bring holiday joy to children in the Mead area. With their support, she personally purchased and wrapped hundreds of gifts, launching an annual tradition of Santa Claus visits that lit up the faces of countless children. Her initiative became a cherished part of the community's holiday season, a testament to her belief in giving back.

Edythe was a Life Member of Sons of Norway, having a father who immigrated from Norway and her mother from Sweden, she had a strong desire to study the Norwegian language and did so for many years. Mike and Edythe were long time members of Safari Club International and held various offices over the years. Alongside the SCI, they became tour guides for the Washington State Fish Hatchery in Spokane and volunteered countless hours raising thousands of dollars for funding. In their early 50's, Mike and Edythe decided to pursue a career in real estate development and became real estate agents together.

They were passionate hunters, traveling to Africa multiple times in pursuit of adventure, and even once embarked on a crocodile hunting trip in Florida. She had a deep love for animals, especially her Labrador dogs and cats that filled their Peone Prairie home with joy.

Their home on Peone Prairie was more than just a residence; it was a place of creativity and care. For several years, they cultivated a Christmas Tree Farm, bringing holiday cheer to the community- and donating trees to families who couldn't afford one. She also discovered a remarkable talent for oil painting, producing a collection of beautiful works that will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts. Edythe's life was a mosaic of grit, love, and vision. She left behind not just a legacy of accomplishments, but a community touched by her kindness and a family inspired by her strength.

She is survived by her only daughter, Gloria A. Fletcher (Seth), daughter-in-law, Sue Coyle. Seven grandchildren -Alisha Anyan (Randy Cole), Brent Anyan (Joy), Daniel Coyle (Bonnie), Mathew Coyle, Eric Coyle, Shane Coyle (Khris), Shannon Coyle. Numerous great-grandchildren some including - Fletcher Cole, Kyler Cole, Sydney Edythe Anyan, Ava Anyan, Debbie Coyle, Michael Coyle, and Hadassah Coyle. Her sister-in-law Marlene Dupree, niece Jamie Dupree (Patty), nephew Ken Dupree (Margie) and more nieces and nephews along with numerous cousins that she adored.

Edythe is a member of St. Luke Lutheran church and a family service will be announced at a later date where she will be laid to rest with her husband of 63 years at Holy Cross Cemetery in Spokane.