Heather Renee Klinke
Born September 29, 1966, in Fort Knox, Kentucky
Passed away June 3, 2025, at the age of 58
Heather was the beloved daughter of Jacque Smith and the late James Smith. She is survived by her husband, Brent, two sons, Austin (Hailey) and Jordin, grandson Jaxon, her four brothers: Mike (Pam), Mark (Melody), Matthew (Danette), and Mitchell Smith; and by her in-laws, Dan & Paula Gualtieri and Greg & Jill Klinke. She is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.
Heather moved to Tacoma, Washington, with her family, where she attended grade school, high school, and college. She graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in 1988 with a degree in accounting and became a Certified Public Accountant in 1990.
Heather met her future husband, Brent Klinke, at his sisters wedding in Edmonds, Washington, in 1986. In 1989, Heather relocated to Spokane and married Brent on October 27, 1990, in Spokane, and together raised two sons, Jordin and Austin Klinke. She welcomed a daughter-in-law, Hailey Klinke, into the family when she married Austin, and was overjoyed to become a grandmother to Jaxon, now 9 months old. Heather also adored her two 'grand dogs,' Obi and Marvin.
Heather dedicated her career to accounting, working in various firms in Spokane from 1990 onward. Her final position was with Eide Bailly, where she retired in November 2024 due to illness. She cherished her work and formed a lifelong friendship with her colleague and mentor, Eileen Myers.
Heather had a deep love for travel, boating, and spending time with family. One of her most meaningful trips was to Germany with her church and family, which left a lasting impression. She also enjoyed vacationing in Hawaii (especially Maui), Florida, and many places in between.
A devoted member of St. Luke Lutheran Church, Heather was active in many aspects of church life. She served as a Sunday School teacher, helped create curriculum, and volunteered in roles such as usher, Vacation Bible School leader, and Secretary-Treasurer. Her faith and community were central to her life.
Heather will be remembered for her warmth, dedication, and unwavering love for her family, faith, and friends. Her legacy lives on in all those whose lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke Lutheran Church. P.O. Box 28948 Spokane WA 99228-8948; or at www.sllcspokane.org.
Heathers Service will be at 1pm, Saturday July 12th, at St. Luke Lutheran Church 9704 N. Division,
Spokane, WAServices
Funeral Service
Saturday
July 12, 2025
1:00 PM
St Luke Lutheran Church 9704 N. Division To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Heather, please visit our Tree Store.