Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs News Release
May 7, 2020
Today the Spokane Veterans Home mourns the passing of a Veteran diagnosed with COVID-19. The Veteran was receiving care at a local hospital. This marks the sixth Spokane Veterans Home resident who has tested positive for COVID-19 and subsequently passed away, either from the effects of COVID-19 or due to other medical conditions that were present prior to the COVID-19 diagnosis.
“It’s never easy to say goodbye to a Veteran or Family member in our Veterans Homes,” said Lourdes E. “Alfie” Alvarado-Ramos, director of the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. “Each Resident in our care brings their unique story, history and personality that make our Veterans Homes, a true Home. To the family and friends of each resident who passes, we offer our most sincere condolences.”
The Spokane Veterans Home provides care to Veterans, Widows of Veterans, Spouses of residents and Gold Star Parents. We care for those who have had an injury or surgery that requires rehabilitative services in order for the individual to safely return home, and we also serve those whose health conditions have deteriorated meaning they need assistance with daily activities and twenty-four hour nursing level care.
At the Spokane Veterans Home, prior to the onset of COVID-19, quarterly Memorial Services were conducted to honor and remember residents. Family members, residents, and staff gather to share treasured memories and the Chaplain and an Honor Guard offer final honors, including the playing of Taps. While we are unable to schedule them now, Memorial Services will be held for our cherished Spokane Veterans Home residents at a later date.
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Heidi Audette
Communications and Legislative Director
(360) 725-2154 – office
(360) 791-8966 – cell
heidia@dva.wa.gov