Nancy Elaine White

Queen of Real Estate and Our Hearts

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Nancy Elaine White, age 70, has forged boldly ahead on her journey into the great unknown. She leaves this world with a legacy of trails blazed, causes championed, and a swath of humanity that will miss her dearly. Surrounded by the laughter and love of those dear to her, Nancy passed peacefully in her sleep after a short but mighty journey with cancer on January 30, 2026 in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Born on November 4, 1955, in Superior, Montana, Nancy was the daughter of Donna June Koch (Gunderson) and LaVerne Kenneth White. She spent much of her youth growing up in Orange, California, where she soaked up the sunshine and salt air as a true "beach Betty," carrying with her a lifelong love of water, waves, and wide horizons.

Nancy built a remarkable career in restaurant and hospitality management across Southern California, Seattle, and Coeur d'Alene. Her professional journey was defined by leadership, heart, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Wherever she went, people followed, drawn to the innate sense of integrity and professionalism which surrounded her like gravity. One of her proudest accomplishments was serving as the opening General Manager of the iconic Beverly's at the Coeur d'Alene Resort. Later, Nancy pivoted into real estate, offering more than 20 years of the highest concierge-level service to her community of clients and friends. Her attention to detail was legendary, her ability to anticipate a person's needs unrivaled. And all while being hilarious — Her laugh came easily and was infectious. Nancy approached her work not simply as a profession, but as a way to serve others — building trust, fostering relationships, and helping people find not just homes, but belonging.

Nancy was a passionate supporter of the arts and cultural enrichment, actively involved with programs through the Coeur d'Alene Arts & Culture Alliance and the Coeur d'Alene Arts Commission, and a proud supporter of the building and opening of Coeur d'Alene's beautiful new library. Nancy also lent her time, leadership, and advocacy to organizations that strengthened the fabric of her community, including the Parade of Homes, Habitat for Humanity, and Safe Passage. Her tireless and committed generosity of energy and spirit helped strengthen the place she called home.

Even more than her impactful legacy of excellence, service, and personality, she was a wonderful mother and a devoted friend.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Emilie Noelle White Hidalgo; her mother, Donna June Koch; and her sister, Jennifer Petersen. She was preceded in death by her father, LaVerne Kenneth White.

Nancy continues on in her journey, ever the “Indian scout” she lived in a past life. Recalling her favorite film “Out of Africa,” she commented that she was simply going ahead to light the fire of the next camp… and we will all meet her there someday.

Friends and loved ones are invited to celebrate Nancy's lasting legacy at Stylus in Coeur d'Alene on Saturday, February 21 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be joyfully made to Safe Passage Violence Prevention Center, Habitat for Humanity, the CDA Public Library Foundation or another charity that reminds you of Nancy’s giving heart and community spirit.

Please join those who loved her in honoring her memory by toasting with a glass of wine, listening to “Time in a Bottle” by Jim Croce, and looking for the songbirds that she said she would follow into the great beyond.