06/02/2026
Iva Peer, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026, in Lewiston, at the age of 93.
Iva was born on April 10, 1933, at home in Milton, Ore., to Loyd and Vera Birdsell. She was one of six children and grew up alongside her siblings: Marie Shinneman, Bill Birdsell, Lela Martin, Cecil Birdsell and Jane Johnson. Throughout her life, she remained close with her siblings, cherishing time spent together visiting, talking, laughing and simply enjoying each other’s company.
She graduated from Clarkston High School in 1951. The following year, she met the love of her life, Dan Peer, at a Metronome dance in Lewiston. Their connection was immediate and enduring. They were married in 1953 in Clarkston and shared 67 beautiful years together until Dan’s passing in 2019. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter and deep commitment to family, spending more than 68 years in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley.
Iva and Dan were blessed with three children: Kathy (Chris) Roberts, of Clarkston, Kurt (Jackie) Peer, of Asotin and Kristi (Kevin) Matthews, of Anacortes, Wash. Iva’s greatest joy came from her family. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Shane, Chad, Lindsey, Jaci, Kylie, Jordyn and Kaden; and cherished her 11 great-grandchildren. Her pride in them all was immeasurable, and her love was felt in every hug, smile and encouraging word.
Throughout her life, Iva lived in Milton, Clarkston, Culdesac, Panama, Asotin, California, Kamiah, Ellensburg and Moscow, creating friendships and memories wherever she went.
She had a strong work ethic and served in several roles over the years, including as a stenographer at Potlatch Forests Inc., a secretary for the Lewiston Police Department, office manager for Richard Law Insurance Agency in Culdesac and Lewiston, and secretary for the law firm of Clements and Clements. She also spent many years caring for children in her home, forming lasting bonds with the families she served.
Music and joy were constants in Iva’s life. She played the clarinet for 13 years with the LC Community Band and sang with the Sweet Adelines in the early 1970s. She loved to dance, especially to anything suited for a good jitterbug or waltz. She also found happiness in reading, working on puzzles and cheering on the Gonzaga Bulldogs and Seattle Mariners.
Iva was known for her warm hospitality and the traditions she created for her family. Her home was the heart of many cherished gatherings — festive Halloween celebrations with costumes, beloved Christmas Eve taco dinners and joyful Easter gatherings. Together with Dan, she also hosted family and friends each year during the Asotin County Fair parade, a tradition treasured by many. In later years, she enjoyed stepping back from hosting, finding delight in simply being present — visiting with loved ones and watching her grandchildren’s laughter and playful moments.
She and Dan were devoted supporters of their children’s and grandchildren’s many activities, attending countless sporting events and performances, always offering enthusiastic encouragement from the stands.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Dan; her daughter Kathy Roberts; her parents, Loyd and Vera Birdsell; and her siblings Cecil Birdsell, Lela Martin and Marie Shinneman.
Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Amy Rogers and the staff at Unique Senior Care for their compassionate care, as well as to all those who checked in on Iva and offered kindness and support in her later years. A special and quiet gratitude is extended to Kristi, Kurt and Shane for the extra time they shared with Iva, offering her companionship, comfort and love.
Iva will be remembered for her gentle kindness, her joyful spirit and the deep love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.