Sandra “Sandee” Gill Diffenbacher

Sandra “Sandee” Gill Diffenbacher, age 75, passed away peacefully in the comfort of Hospice House on December 26, 2024, in Spokane, Washington with her children by her side.  Born on October 21, 1949, in Billings, Montana, Sandee carried the spirit of her Montana roots with her throughout her life—quiet yet strong, loyal and loving, with a dry sense of humor and a deep sense of patriotism.

The daughter of Evelyn and Larry Gill, they spent her early years in Great Falls, where she found joy in singing with the church choir, running track, and volunteering as a Candy Striper. Her childhood was rich with community and connection through Brownies, Girl Scouts, and Rainbow Girls. In high school, her family relocated to Spokane—a city that became her lifelong home, though Montana always held a special place in her heart.

In the fall of 1967, Sandee met the love of her life, John Diffenbacher. Though she initially thought he was “kind of a dork,” by the end of their first date she confided to a friend, “that’s the kind of guy I could marry.” And she did—marrying John in 1972. They enjoyed over twenty years together before cancer took John in 1993. Sandee never remarried and remained devoted to his memory and the family they created.

Sandee’s greatest joy in life was her family, both past and present. She was the family historian and genealogist, spending countless hours tracing family histories and preserving cherished memories in scrapbooks. She had many passions that colored her life: collecting fabric, sewing, needlework, and American history. She was a longtime member of the Montana Historical Society and the Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation.

A proud member of Beta Sigma Phi for over 50 years, she cherished the friendships and purpose it brought into her life. Her commitment to community extended to patriotic organizations where she worked to ensure that military service members were welcomed home with honor and dignity — never again treated like those returning from Vietnam. That same empathy and compassion led her to volunteer with Hospice of Spokane for an extraordinary 25 years.

Those who knew Sandee will remember her as caring yet stubborn in the best way—a champion procrastinator with a sweet tooth. She loved deeply and quietly but fiercely stood by those she cared about.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter April; son Brian; sister Patsy (Larry) Cada; as well as countless friends and family whose lives were touched by her warmth and wit. She joins her beloved husband John; parents Evelyn and Larry Gill; a baby brother; and cherished aunts and uncles.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, starting at 1:00 PM at Heritage Funeral Home located at 508 N Government Way in Spokane, Washington. A brief graveside service will follow. Guests are invited to stay afterward for a dessert reception where memories can be shared among those who loved her.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice of Spokane.

May Sandee Diffenbacher’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her—and may we carry forward the legacy of kindness, loyalty, humor, and quiet strength that defined her life. And take comfort in knowing Sandee and John are together again.