Connie Jean Colwell

Connie Jean (Schatz) Colwell joined her loved ones in Heaven on Monday, May 4, 2026, following a brief stay at the Schneidmiller Hospice House. Born on September 29, 1956, to Earl and Marge Schatz of Post Falls, Connie was a blessing to her parents and a lifelong joy to her older siblings, Lee and Nancy.

A proud graduate of the Post Falls High School Class of 1974, Connie chose to remain in the community she called home, finding beauty and purpose in the local roots established by two generations of the Schatz legacy. She carried that family spirit into a life defined by an industrious work ethic. Whether she was serving neighbors as a waitress or beginning her career at YJ Meats, Connie approached every task with dedication. It was there, in the grocery and meat-wrapping industry, where she first combined her love for people with the tireless energy that defined her career.

Connie married the love of her life, John Colwell, on July 9, 1988. Together, they built a life on ten acres on Greensferry Road, a home that remained her sanctuary until the very end. For years, Connie served as the bookkeeper and CFO for her husband’s business, The Cable Alternative, before returning to the grocery industry. She served the community at Safeway and eventually concluded her career with Yoke’s Fresh Market, where she retired in the fall of 2021.

Connie is survived by her husband, John, at the family home; her brother, Lee Schatz of Severna Park, MD; and her sister, Nancy Kopszywa of Stevensville, MT. Though she never had children of her own, Connie eagerly embraced the role of the "favorite aunt," pouring her love and attention into every niece, nephew, and great-niece and great-nephew as the family tree grew. Her impact on their lives and the legacy of love she leaves behind is best told through their own words:

From nephew Garrett Schatz: At any of my visits to Connie, she always made sure that we stopped and got a huckleberry milk shake……and a Hudson hamburger in Coeur d’ Alene with her and my Dad.

From nephew Gavin Schatz: Though living across the country, I remember the brief times we spent together. I am thankful she got to meet my children, her great niece and nephew, Emery and Grady.

From niece Brenda Ruckdashel: Aunt Connie was the queen of tickling. As a kid, I remember the anticipation of waiting for her to get me every time I saw her. I would laugh so hard that I’d cry.

From niece Tammy Christensen: I love how excited she was when I made her a pinecone wreath……I have noticed that she still has it hanging up. She was always so generous and remembered every birthday. She was a gentle soul..

From nephew Todd Randall: The best thing I will always remember is her smile, her laugh, her high spirit, her calmness and her positive outlook on everything. Spokane River days with Connie John and their dogs were always fun!

From niece Jessica Colwell: I loved her laugh which came easy and often. I am thankful that I was able to share pictures of my first born child Millie.

From great-niece Tricia Christensen: I remember her incredibly infectious giggle-laugh, her huckleberry jam Christmas gifts and her consistent, non-judgmental interest and curiosity about my life. She asked thoughtful questions and didn’t treat me like just a kid, even when I was one.

From nephew Chris Colwell: Connie was quiet kindness and a sardonic grin. She performed interminable acts of service and all she asked for in return was the room to be herself and enjoy life on her own terms. She created an oasis that survives her and standing among her plants and on her porch in the midst of her creation, you can’t help but feel her quiet presence.. I loved Connie more than I can say. I believe she rests peacefully and would want us all to feel peace. Connie’s laugh always felt like she was laughing at the world and it made you feel like you were part of (in on) the inside joke.

From Cousin Leona (Schatz) Wallace: Connie possessed a rare gift for making people feel seen and included. She was the bridge between our families, ensuring Jerry and I were part of every holiday and milestone. As a hostess, she was a quiet perfectionist; while we never expected her to cater to our dietary needs, a gluten-free alternative would always appear—a small, thoughtful grace offered without fanfare. When we lost my father, Connie’s home became a sanctuary for our community. She hosted an open house for the friends and neighbors who had shaped our childhoods, navigating the room with effortless poise and tending to every guest's comfort until the final goodbye. Beyond her grace as a hostess, I cherish the deep roots we shared. Growing up as cousins and classmates in the same high school class, Connie was a constant in my life. I can still see us as children, spread out on the living room carpet at the Schatz home, trading Barbie outfits while we munched on Aunt Marge’s sugar-rolled frozen pie cherries. In those moments, we weren't just cousins; we were two girls growing up together, feeling truly spoiled by the simple joys of family. She was, quite simply, amazing.

Connie’s final days were spent enveloped in the warmth, kindness, and exceptional professional care of the Schneidmiller Hospice House. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal memorial service. For those who wish to honor her memory, the family suggests that any remembrances be made to the Schneidmiller House in Connie’s name; a final tribute to the peace and comfort she found there, and the quiet grace she shared with us all.