Regina Marie Unruh Regina Marie Unruh
Regina Marie Unruh was born on Nov. 3, 1933, in Copeland, Kansas, to Edward B. and Minnie Unruh. She peacefully passed away at Sunset Home in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, on Aug. 16, 2020, reaching the age of 86 years.
In 1940, at the age of 6, she moved with her family to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, leaving the Dust Bowl experiences of Kansas behind. Her formal education started at the Moyie School and after consolidation she went to Sheridan School. At the age of 14, she felt God calling her and she gave her heart to Him. On Jan. 5, 1947, she was baptized into The Church of God in Christ, Mennonite by Minister Herman Miniger. She was faithful to her vows until the end.
Regina had a very full life. She was a lover of children and keenly felt the loss of her 2-year old sister when she died of pneumonia. She mentioned it often through the years. It likely was a defining factor that influenced her in her choice of nursing for her life’s career. In 1967 she graduated from LPN classes in Bonners Ferry, becoming a licensed practical nurse.
She worked at Grace Nursing Home in California until she needed to return home to Idaho to care for her father who had become disabled after suffering a stroke. She also cared for her mother when she had cancer. As a family we remember asking her advice on medical issues, and when we needed her she was always there.
A born problem solver and caregiver, she gave 40 years to the medical field. Many of those years were spent serving at the Boundary Community Hospital in Bonners Ferry. She had a knack with new-born babies who soon hushed their crying when held securely in her arms. Her co-workers have said that when Regina had a diagnosis to offer on some puzzling patient problem, they listened.
Being a very industrious lady, Regina found time after work for tending her beautiful flowers and garden and for putting away food for the winter. She loved to cook for friends and family and we remember her beautifully set tables and the delicious meals she provided.