Denise WILEY

May 16, 1969 - July 13, 2025

Spokane - Denise Janelle Wiley passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 56. She was born on May 16, 1969, in Spokane, Washington, to Leslie and Laura Wiley.

Denise was a spirited and independent person who found joy in the simple things - being outdoors, caring for animals, and expressing herself through singing and art. She had a strong connection to the natural world around her and was happiest when surrounded by trees, rivers, and in the quiet company of her son, Spencer, and her dogs.

She grew up in Cheney, Washington, within a big family that took full advantage of the rural countryside. More days than not, Denise was organizing or accelerating adventures, and she was fearless in play and life. She graduated from Cheney High School in 1987. There, she was known as a long-distance runner and a singer with a strong voice and a lot of heart. After high school, she worked different jobs, learned from the people and places she encountered, and raised her son, Spencer Wiley-Wirick, with John Wirick of Spokane.

Denise worked for Spokane City Parks, where she discovered a great purpose in keeping her assigned parks clean and welcoming. She enjoyed chatting with community members and was known for her friendly nature, often building special relationships with the elderly from the surrounding area. In addition, she worked in various roles at the Salish School of Spokane, where she connected to her personal Native American heritage while supporting the mission of language and cultural revitalization.

Nature was Denise's place of peace and belonging. She loved camping along the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, watching sunrises and sunsets, and staying up late to gaze at the moon. She had a soft spot for animals and was a devoted dog mom throughout her life.

She had a sharp wit and a great sense of humor. Even in difficult times, Denise would deliver a well-timed joke or one-liner to shift the tension. She was strong-willed, competitive, and never afraid to take risks. Life wasn't always easy, but she faced it with grit and gave what she could to those who stood by her.

She is survived by her son, Spencer Wiley-Wirick; her father, Leslie Wiley; her sisters, LaRae Wiley, Rene Wiley, Michelle Wiley, and Cicily Wynhoff; and her brother, Craig Wiley. She will be remembered for her humor, movie-like life adventures, storytelling, and free-willed spirit.

Services will be held at the Kettle Falls Grange in Barstow, on Friday, July 18, at 10 AM, followed by burial services at Pia Mission Cemetery, and a final meal at Kettle Falls Grange.