Daphne Anne Ghan

October 23, 1937 – October 25, 2026

Daphne Anne Ghan passed away peacefully in Seattle on October 25, 2026, just two days after celebrating her 89th birthday, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Dickinson, North Dakota, to John and Anna Hellemons, Daphne grew up in Wardner, Idaho, graduating with honors from Kellogg High School in 1955. She met the love of her life, Lavern (Vern) Ghan, at a University of Idaho dance. They married in Kellogg, Idaho, on June 26, 1956, beginning a remarkable 70-year marriage and raising five children together.

Daphne earned a degree in Urban Planning from the University of Washington and enjoyed a distinguished career with the Seattle Housing Authority and the Archdiocese of Seattle, where she helped oversee the construction of nine churches and numerous renovation projects.

An enthusiastic traveler, hiker, gardener, reader, and lifelong learner, Daphne embraced life with curiosity and determination. She and Vern explored the world together, sharing adventures across six continents. She nearly completed the 100 Hikes of Washington and passed her love of the outdoors to generations of her family.

The beloved matriarch of the Ghan family, Daphne was known for her intelligence, wit, compassion, and memorable speeches at family gatherings. She believed deeply in education, responsibility, community service, and family. When Vern’s health declined, her devotion remained steadfast through daily visits.

Daphne is survived by her husband, Lavern; sisters Patricia Reisinger and Virginia Patton (Robert); children Mike (Mary), Steve (Sharon), Tom (Cheryl), Mark (Julie), and Marcy (Rein); grandchildren Laila (Chris), David (Laura), Christina (De’Mel), and Jessica (Ryan); eight great-grandchildren; and her beloved cat, Millie.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Daphne’s memory may be made to Heifer International.

A life well lived, a family deeply loved, and a legacy that will endure for generations.