Ingeborg Helga Cantu

Ingeborg Helga Cantu

November 24, 1938 – May 28, 2025

Ingeborg Helga Cantu, 86, of Spokane, WA, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 28, 2025. Born on November 24, 1938 in Leipheim, Germany to Alwin and Frida Lehrer, Inge was cherished as the youngest of their two daughters. Inge immigrated to the United States shortly after graduating from high school, carrying with her a deep love for her German heritage that she proudly shared throughout her life. Shortly after moving to the States, Inge reunited with Ramon Cantu, whom she had met while he was serving in the US military stationed in Germany. They were married in October of 1959. They had one son, Danny, and they lived a full and adventurous life for 29 years until Ray's untimely passing in 1989. Inge was fortunate to have a second chance at love when she was set up on a blind date with Gary Puseman and they shared 32 years of love and laughter together until her passing.

Inge’s adventurous spirit led her to travel often, whether returning to Germany to visit cherished friends and family or enjoying numerous vacations throughout the US. She was a devoted member of Spokane’s German-American Society and received the club's Honor Roll Award in 2024, playing a vital role in keeping German culture alive in the Spokane community. Inge loved animals, the outdoors, fishing, rodeos and lively card games with those she loved. But, arguably, Inge's greatest love and sense of pride was that for her grandchildren. She was devoted to spending as much time as possible supporting them in all that they pursued. Whether it be a sporting event, a school concert, an academic award or a graduation, the kids could always rely on Grandma Inge being in the crowd cheering them on. If you were blessed enough to be in Inge's inner circle, you knew that she was always a phone call away if you had a need and there was always a place at her table for a game of Yahtzee or Mahjong. Known for her fiery personality, high energy, and deep appreciation for nature, Inge was cherished by those who knew her.

Inge was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ray and her beloved sister Traude.

She is survived by her son, Dan Cantu (Melanie), grandchildren Brandon Cantu (Hillary), Connor Cantu (Kelsey), Karly Watts (Cody), and great-grandchildren Cooper and Kennedy Cantu. Also, by her loving partner Gary Puseman, Gary’s children Andre Puseman (Amy), Rene Sandidge (Loyd); grandchildren KC Sandidge, Hunter Sandidge (Lisa), Dakota Puseman (Lisa), Taylor Bortoli (Tyler), Mckenna Puseman and great grandchild Laena Bortoli. Inge also had numerous nieces and nephews in California, Texas and Germany that will miss her dearly.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the community she helped shape.

There will be a celebration of life at the German American Society Club (25 W Third, Spokane) on July 14th at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Inge’s name to the Spokane Humane Society, an organization close to her heart.

https://spokanehumanesociety.org/memorial-donations/