Stefanie Denae Balm

Stefanie Denae Balm, of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, stepped into eternity on September 15, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 46 years old.

Born on May 31, 1980, in Winterset, Iowa, to Mark and Blainey Ray, Stefanie grew into a woman whose laughter could fill any room. Her humor was contagious, the kind that turned an ordinary afternoon into something you'd remember for years. If you were lucky enough to be her friend, you knew what it meant to be fiercely loved and fiercely protected. She was loyal to a fault, selfless to her core, and she found real joy in watching the people around her have a good time.

In 2001, Stefanie found salvation in Christ, and that faith anchored the rest of her life. Two years later, in 2003, she married the love of her life, Matthew. Together they built a beautiful family and welcomed three children: Norah in 2009, Alexander in 2013, and Meghan in 2016. Stefanie poured herself into being a stay-at-home mom, and she was passionate about it. She cheered her kids on in absolutely everything, always their biggest fan.

When she wasn't running the household, Stefanie loved to cook, travel, and plan a good party. She even laced up her shoes to run a few half marathons along the way. She worshipped at Calvary Rathdrum, and even in her illness she gave of herself, offering comfort and encouragement in online support groups for fellow cancer patients.

Stefanie was preceded in death by her brother, Douglas Ray. She is survived by her husband, Matthew Balm; her children, Norah, Meghan, and Alexander; her parents, Mark and Blainey Ray; and the many friends who felt like family.

Those who knew Stefanie will carry her spirit and her faith forward, held together by the words she leaned on: "Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today." Exodus 14:13.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 12 to 3 p.m. at Burbity Workspaces, 2818 N Sullivan Rd Ste 100, Spokane Valley, Washington. Come ready to laugh, remember, and celebrate a life well and joyfully lived.