OBITUARIES

 

 

Carmen Brown Nielson Jensen, 78, of Rexburg, passed away March 4, 2010, of natural causes at Homestead Assisted Living.

She was born Aug. 29, 1931, in Rexburg, Idaho, to James Earl Brown and Constance Ricks Brown. She grew up in Rexburg, graduated from Madison High School and attended Ricks College.

She married Stanley E. Nielson on Oct. 27, 1950, in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. They lived and farmed in Archer until Stanley passed away Oct. 26, 1990. Carmen was known for her hard work, beautiful garden and wonderful whole- wheat bread. She loved being a mother and raising her six sons. Carmen was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was faithful in all of her church callings, and especially enjoyed music.

She married Grey M. Jensen on Aug. 13, 1992, in the Jordan River LDS Temple and moved to Draper, Utah, where they lived for eight years. During that time, she and Grey served a mission to Sydney, Australia. They also enjoyed traveling and working together in his business. Grey passed away March 20, 2000.

After his passing, Carmen moved to Idaho Falls to be closer to her family. Her social ease and friendly manner allowed her to develop strong friendships. However, because of failing health, she moved to Homestead Assisted Living in Rexburg in 2008.

Carmen is survived by her sons, Blaine Nielson of South Carolina, Brad (Laurie) Nielson of Rigby, Jason (Nan) Nielson and Keith (Kathy) Nielson of Rexburg, and Kim (Catherine) Nielson of Ucon; 27 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Doug (Dorothy) Brown and Joann (Lee) Reed.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands; a son, Richard Nielson; a brother, Oreon Brown; and a sister, Zola Teeples.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 8, at Archer-Sunnydell LDS Chapel. The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Flamm Funeral Home and from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in Sutton Cemetery in Archer. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family online at www.flammfh.com.

 

Robert Grant High, 86, of Ashton, Idaho, passed away March 5, 2010, at the Ashton Living Center. He was born Feb. 1, 1924, to John Wesley High and Thelma Maude Andrus. He attended school in Sarilda, Idaho, and later attended North Fremont High School. He was raised in the canyon, northwest of Ashton near the Bird Head Rock, where he helped his dad farm.

Robert married Helen Mabel Osborne on Oct. 18, 1944, at the St. Anthony courthouse. Four months later, he was drafted into the U.S. Navy. He completed his basic training in San Diego, Calif.

While en route to the Philippines, his first child, Mary Dawn, was born on July 12, 1945. He was serving in Samar during the Christmas Mutiny of 1945. He received an honorable discharge April 12, 1946. His two sons, Jim W. (born April 5, 1949) and Bill H. (born Oct. 11, 1953), were both born while he and Helen lived up in the canyon.

In 1954, Robert moved his family two miles closer to town so his children could catch the school bus. He lived the remainder of his life there. He farmed west of Ashton and worked as a welder on the side to support the farm. He, with his wife and children, welded pipe line for underground irrigation systems.

Every summer, he would load up his family early on a Sunday morning and drive into Yellowstone Park. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and snowmobiling with his family. He worked on both the Teton and American Falls dams, repairing machinery. Later, his son Jim got him a job for Halliburton on the North Slope in Alaska.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Helen; two sisters, Betty Linscott of Idaho Falls and Julieana Hartle of Phoenix, Ariz.; daughter, Mary (Norman) Wengert of Kimberly, Idaho; sons, Jim (Dena) High of Rock Springs, Wyo., and Bill (Brenda) High of Pasco, Wash.; 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Nelda Empey and Phyllis High; two brothers, John Joseph (Jack) High and Clinton Albert (Pete) High; two grandsons, Shad Arven High and Jared Benjamin High; two great-grandsons, Seth William Sweeney and Dominick Allen Sweeney.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday March 9, at the Ashton 1st Ward LDS church, 1313 N. 3600 East in Ashton. The family will receive friends at the Baxter Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday and at the church one hour prior to the services. Bishop Lynn Ballard will officiate. Interment will be in the Pineview Cemetery.

 

Jackson “Jack” Isaac Allred Morgan, 81, passed away Thursday, March 4, 2010. Jack was born December 9, 1928, in Labelle, Idaho to Minnie Ann and Isaac Allred.

He lived many years in Coeur d’Alene; Glasgow, Montana; and Tetonia before returning to the Lorenzo area. For the past 25 years, Jack and Gerry also made Quartzite, Arizona their winter home among many family and friends. 

Jack served in many capacities for his church. He worked for many years as a contractor before moving to Glasgow, Montana to start a new business. He returned to the Rigby area to retire.

Jack was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Geraldine in December of 2009.

Survivors include his children; Steve (Diane) Morgan, Mary Jo Brinkley, Jack (Cheryl) Morgan, and Ann (Kevin) Anderson; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, March 8, 2010 at Annis-Little Butte Cemetery under the direction of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. The family will receive friends from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Eckersell Memorial Chapel, 101 West Main Street, Rigby, prior to graveside services. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com

 

Rodger Emmett Liles, 81, of Rigby, died March 4, 2010, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

He was born August 15, 1928, in Monroe, Washington to Basil Liles and Mildred Winifred Norris Liles.

He was raised and attended schools in Everett Washington. He served in the US Marines from 1946 – 1949. On July 24, 1948, he married Patricia Sherman in Oakland, California. He lived most of his life in El Cerrito, California.

He was a Real Estate Broker in Northern California and was elected president of Northern California Realtors Association and served from 1989-1990. Rodger was active in philanthropic causes for the needy. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed fishing, hunting, reading, lunch at the Rigby Senior Citizens Center and taking his favorite companion, Chico, for walks around Rigby Lake. Rodger was a wonderful grandfather and loved spending time with his family. 

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Sherman of Pleasant Hill, CA, and family members, Karen Liles (Mark) Hoopes, of Rigby, Rodger Emmett Liles Jr. of Reno, NV, James Grande, of Emeryville, CA, Phyllis Kacher, of Arlington, WA, Robert (Shirley) Sherman, of Walnut Creek, CA, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Susan Margaret Liles Grande, two brothers, Robert Basil Liles and Herbert W. Liles.

A funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m., March 6, 2010, at Eckersell Memorial Chapel, 101 West Main Street, Rigby. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com

 

Margaret Rogers Walker, 72, of St. Anthony, died Wednesday, March 3, 2010, at the home of her daughter in Idaho Falls.

She was born in Browning, Mont., on Oct. 16, 1937, to Russel S. and Lilly M. Therriault Rogers and was raised in Virginia City, Mont., by her mother and stepfather, Lilly M. and Harry Wilcox. She attended schools in Virginia City.

She married Edward Elmer Mark Walker. He died Oct. 30, 1975. She worked as a waitress and homemaker. She enjoyed traveling with her children to the West Yellowstone, Jackson and Island Park areas. She gave birth to 10 children and raised them in several cities in Montana and Idaho.

She was an active member of Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in St. Anthony. She has many special relationships with St. Anthony residents. After her children left home, she enjoyed her favorite three cats and two dogs.

She is survived by her children, Joseph S. Walker and Juanita (Miguel) Gonzalez, both of Idaho Falls, Joann (Mike) Williams of Douglas, Wyo., Rita (James) Sale of Gordonsville, Va., Jesse Walker of St. Anthony, Stormy (Jose Delores) Ramirez and E. Mark Walker, both of Fort Worth, Texas, Mona Michaud of Raleigh, N.C., and Helen (Jeff) Albrecht of Norfolk, Va.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and son, Andrew Luke Walker.

Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, March 8, at Bert Flamm Mortuary, 581 E. First North in St. Anthony. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery in Idaho Falls.

 

James Howard Murdoch age 88 of Rexburg died at his home on March 3, 2010. He was born to Brigham and Luanne Hammon Murdoch March 8, 1922 in Farnum Idaho.

He grew up in the Ashton area, graduating from North Fremont High School in 1941. He enlisted in the Air Force and served in World War II returning in January 1946.

He married the love of his life, Lauretta Grace Hillam June 4, 1946 in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple.

In 1946 Howard managed the Yellowstone Stake LDS church farm. In 1958 they moved to Marysville where he farmed with his father-in-law Marvin Hillam. In 1968 he had the opportunity to work at Ricks College and was employed in the Physical Plant. The family moved to Rexburg in August of 1972. Howard enjoyed working at Ricks College and the lifelong friends he made there. He retired from Ricks College in 1988.

Howard was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints serving in many callings; including stake and ward clerk, bishoprics, on the High Council and his favorite calling was Webelo leader. Howard and Grace were called to the Albuquerque New Mexico mission were they loved and served the Lamanites.

Howard is survived by his wife Grace, and their 8 children. Gwen (Fred) Freeman of Caldwell, ID, Pat (Ron) Wodskow, of Archer, ID, Bryan (Debbie) Murdoch, of Alpine, UT, Molly (Karl) Cook of Rexburg, ID, Richard (Lori) Murdoch of Oakdale, CA, LaRae (Gary) Mackay of Hibbard, ID, Marilyn (Gary) Hansen, of Draper, UT, and Bradley Kay (Pam) Murdoch of Caldwell ID, as well as 66 grandchildren and 60 great-grand children. He is also survived by his sisters Tressa Garrett, Katie Lyon and a brother Wallace Murdoch.

He will be greatly missed by his friends and family. He was a great example of love and compassion to all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held 12:00 Noon, Saturday, March 6 at the Rexburg Stake Center on 7th South in Rexburg, Bishop Scott Lee officiating. The Family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Flamm Funeral Home and again from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. at the church prior to services. Interment will be in the Pineview Cemetery in Ashton. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family online at www.flammfh.com

 

Stephen "Stevie" Ray Miles, 32, passed away Feb. 27, 2010, near Victor, Idaho.

He was born in Pocatello, Idaho, on Aug. 23, 1977, to Fay Johnson and Verl L. Miles. For the past 12 years, Steve has been very close to his stepfather, Ray Johnson. He attended schools in American Falls, Idaho, and earned his GED in 1997.

After high school, he developed skills using his hands, including mechanic work and welding. At the time of his death, Steve was employed at a railing shop in Idaho Falls. His hobbies were making things with his hands, outdoor camping and fishing. He found real joy in teaching Sammie, his stepdaughter, to fish.

In 2008, Steve became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he embraced and became enthused about the gospel. Just before joining the church, he married Amy Lynn Pasquella on June 21, 2008. They set up residence in the Teton Valley.

Steve suffered from chronic pain from a back injury and, more recently, from a head injury. He was struggling to stop using pain medication and had plans to enter treatment for his addiction problems. The family sincerely believes his intention was to change his life, but he was overcome with life issues that he didn't have the ability to correct. Due to his addiction, Steve lost his vision of recovery and hope of a better future.

He is survived by his wife, Amy; his stepchildren, Kristina Pasquella, David (Miranda) Pasquella, Tristan McCarthy, Erika Labbee and Nathanial Labbee, all of Pocatello, and Samantha Clark of Victor; his parents, Fay and Ray Johnson; siblings, Curtis Miles and Melody Miles, both of Pocatello; stepsiblings, Kammi (Steven) Corman and Nathaniel Johnson.

Steve was very close to Amy's family, her parents, Don and Sue Roth of Pocatello; Jeff (Vanessa) Christensen of Georgia, Brian (Jill) Roth of Washington, Rachel (Jason) Bandy of Colorado, Sean Roth of New York, Sarah (Danny) Davidson, Tim, Leah and Joe Roth, and Kirby (Cory) Delozier, all of Pocatello; 23 nieces and nephews; and a great-niece.

He was preceded in death by his father.

The family appreciates the caring thoughts and acts of friends too numerous to count.

Funeral arrangements have been made through Valley Mortuary in Driggs, Idaho. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help cover funeral expenses. Contributions may be sent to Valley Mortuary, or to Driggs 3rd Ward, P.O. Box 57, Driggs, ID 83422, attention Bishop Woolstenhulme. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.valleymortuarydriggs.com.

 

Trilba Coles, 81, of Fort Shaw, Montana, died Friday February 26, 2010, at her home from natural causes.

Trilba was born August 1, 1928 to Amelia and Henry Coles at the family farm in Rigby, Idaho. She lived on the farm most of her life. After her Mother passed away, she moved to the Fairfield Bench in Montana where she lived with her sister Elnora from 1980 to 1997. She then moved to Fort Hall, Idaho to live with her sister Cleo Evans. In 2005 both Cleo and Trilba moved to the Fairfield Bench to live with her sister Elnora Camphouse. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers; Elwood, Kenneth and Henry.

She is survived by a brother, Ray Coles of Chubbuck, Idaho, her sisters; Cleo Evans and Elnora Camphouse, sisters-in-law Glenda Coles of Belt, Montana and Mona Coles of Chubbuck, Idaho and numerous nieces and nephews.

Trilba loved to fish, play marbles, gardening and crafts.

Funeral services will be Thursday at 1:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Sun River, Montana under the direction of Croxford Funeral Home with services on Saturday March 26, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. in Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby, Idaho. Burial will take place in Ririe-Shelton Cemetery in Ririe, Idaho. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com or www.croxfordfuneralhome.com

 

Betty Lou Estrada, 82, former area resident, died Feb. 24, 2010, in Modesto, Calif.

Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, at Annis-Little Butte Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday at Cornelison Funeral Home, 431 N. 15th Ave. in Pocatello. Online guest book and condolences available at www.cornelisonfh.com.

 

Leona May Moon Flamm died at age 88 on February 26, 2010. She was born March 6, 1921 in Fairfield, Camas County, Idaho, to Reuben Ezra Moon and Emma Lueisa Howells Moon, the next to the last of eleven children, seven of whom survived. She grew up in Fairfield, Egin, St. Anthony, and Rexburg. During the Depression she developed a keen sense of humor and many other positive qualities through her family’s closeness amid hardships.

She started school early, enrolled by her mother because she kept running away to school at the age of five, slipping into classrooms to sit with her siblings. She later conveyed her belief in the power of education to all of her children.

Leona met her sweetheart, Kenneth Rigby Flamm, to whom she was married on Feb. 19, 1941 in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. To this loving union were born seven children—five girls and two boys.

Devoted members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Leona and Kenneth both served in a variety of church jobs, sometimes together. Leona also supported Ken in his lifelong participation in the Boy Scouts of America and in his work as a mortician at Flamm Funeral Home.

After Kenneth’s death on June 24th, 1993, Leona continued to live in their family home in Rexburg. When her health declined, she moved to Idaho Falls to live close to her daughter Julie and her family.

Leona is survived by her children, Luana (Niel) Anderson of Austin, Texas; Joyce Flamm of Thatcher, Arizona; Karen (Bill) Crumley of Perry, Utah; Barbara (Wayne) Allred of Plano, Texas; Douglas (Kristine) Flamm of McLain, Virginia; and Julie (Robert) Martineau of Idaho Falls, Idaho. She is also survived by 26 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren whom she deeply loved and enjoyed. In addition to her husband and an infant son, Kenneth Jay, Leona was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Clifton, Kenneth, Junius, Lyle and Dean; and sisters, Gladys, Stella, Fern, Ellen, and Marie.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 5th at the Rexburg 16th Ward LDS Chapel on Hidden Valley Drive, Bishop Terry Gorton officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Flamm Funeral Home and again from Noon to 12:45 p.m. at the church prior to services. Condolences and memories maybe sent to the family online at www.flammfh.com.

 

Neal Willard Sauer, 84, of Monteview, Idaho, died Sunday, February 28, 2010 at his home.

He was born January 26, 1926, in Lewisville, Idaho to William Sauer and Leone Boyes Walker Sauer. 

He was raised and attended schools in Lewisville, graduating from Midway High School. During high school he played basketball for Midway High School. He served in U.S. Army during WWII, under General Patton, and was awarded the Purple Heart. On June 12, 1947, he married Mildred Green in Menan; their marriage was solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on April 20, 1955, they were married for 62 years and together they had 8 children. 

Neal was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He played church basketball and competed at an all church tournament in SLC, Utah; placing 2nd.

At age 22 Neal started farming “raising potatoes and kids”. He farmed in Lewisville, Ririe, Osgood, and Monteview, Idaho, and never quit farming. He loved his cows and enjoyed raising hay and grain.

He is survived by his wife; Mildred, of Monteview, ID, daughters; Enid (Bruce) Deming, of Salt Lake City, UT, Ellen (the late Roy Lee), Huggard, of Huntsville, UT, Peggy (George) Danielson, of Kaysville, UT, Janeal (Chuck) Capron, of Layton, UT, a daughter-in-law; Diane Sauer Ricks, of Sugar City, ID, sons; Ray Neal (Clarice) Sauer, of Monteview, ID, Kim William (Jeaniel) Sauer, of Huntsville, UT, David Wayne (Magdalene) Sauer, of Monteview, ID sisters; Leanora Taylor, of Idaho Falls, ID, Carol Prestwich, of Richland, WA, 37 grandchildren and 50 Great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Lorin Reed Sauer, sisters; Eileen Petersen, Melba Foster Pettingale, Enid Sauer, a brother; Stanley Reed Sauer, and 2 great grandsons.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, March 4, 2010, at the Monteview LDS Chapel. The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and from 9:30 a.m., to 10:30 a.m. prior to services both at the church. Burial will be in the West Jefferson Cemetery, under the care of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com

 

Frank D. Poulsen, 90, of Lewisville, died Sunday, February, 28, 2010, at his home.

He was born February 24, 1920, in Plain City, Utah to Peter C. Poulsen and Emily Jane Newey Poulsen. 

He was raised and attended schools in Plain City, graduating from Weber High School. He served in the US Army during WWII. He married Virginia Taylor February 13, 1945, in the Salt lake City LDS Temple.

Together they had 8 children.

He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; he served in the Elders Quorum and Sunday School Presidencies. He along with his wife, Virginia served in the Fresno California Mission. He also served in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. 

He farmed in the Menan and Lewisville areas for many years. Frank was a devoted family man.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia Poulsen, of Lewisville, children; Dennis (Keila) Poulsen, of Ammon, Darwin (Elaine) Poulsen, of Saint Cloud, MN, Karen (Randy) Madsen, of Rigby, Blair (Christine) Poulsen, of Sugar City, Carl (Brenda) Poulsen, of Rigby, Joy (Dave) Rucks, of Idaho Falls, Roy (Annette) Poulsen, of Ogden, UT, Reed (Brenda) Poulsen, of Kearney, NB, 48 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, 3 sisters, and an infant son, Eiler Dee Poulsen.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 3, at the Lewisville 2nd Ward LDS Chaple, with Bishop Tony Nielson, conducting. The family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, at Eckersell Memorial Chapel, 101 West Main Street, Rigby, and from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Annis Little Butte Cemetery, under the care of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com

 

Rex Lee Helm was born Oct. 13, 1935, to Rex Allen and Elizabeth Carpenter Helm and passed away peacefully Feb. 26, 2010.

He grew up in eastern Idaho as an only child but had many cousins and friends to share adventures. He met his wife, LaRee, in Rexburg, and they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on Sept. 18, 1964.

Rex had a lifelong love of learning and music. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from the University of Idaho. He taught math at the University of Idaho. He worked for Pittsburgh Testing Labs as a civil engineer for 35 years and for American Testing Labs, most recently, working on many significant projects around the country. He loved music and made and played violins, encouraging his children and grandchildren to develop their own musical talents.

Rex was member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He held many enjoyable callings, but his favorite was working in the nursery. He also worked in the Jordan River LDS Temple as an ordinance worker.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, LaRee Hansen Helm; his children, Allen, Eric (Tamsen), Theresa (John), Melanie, David (Emily) and Michael (Sheri); 18 grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. today, March 2, at the Eastmont LDS Ward at 1280 E. Turquoise Way (9992 S.) in South Jordan, Utah. A viewing will be for one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday in Annis-Little Butte Cemetery in Lorenzo. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.jenkins-soffe.com.

Janet LaRae Little Phillips, 74, of Twin Groves, returned to her Heavenly Father on Feb. 25, 2010. She passed away at her home with her husband and family by her side.  
Janet was born Feb. 13, 1936, during a severe blizzard in Teton Valley, to Ray Wallace Little and Afton Knight Little. She spent the first years of her life in Teton Valley. She attended elementary school there until her family moved to Burton when she was 10. She loved her time spent in Burton and attended school at Madison, later graduating from Rigby High School.  
She married the love of her life, Kenneth Lee Phillips, on July 1, 1953, in the Idaho Falls Temple.
They lived in Rigby for a short time before moving to California for a short time while Kenneth served in the military. They settled down in Salem in 1956 where they raised children and spent time working on the family farm. Ken and Janet built a home in Twin Groves in 1977, where Janet spent the remainder of her life raising and caring for her children and serving others.  
Janet was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in many callings. She was a Relief Society president and a compassionate service leader for several years. She also was an ordinance worker in the Idaho Falls Temple for 10 years before serving a mission with Ken in Macon, Ga., in 2000.
Janet spent a great deal of her time serving others. She spent several years making quilts for family, friends, and for humanitarian service. She did many other projects to assist with Humanitarian aide. Her final calling in the church was preparing baptismal clothing for the St. Anthony Stake.  
In her younger years Janet loved to oil paint, a gift that was passed to her by her mother. She also loved making quilts of every variety. Her beautiful quilts warmed the bodies and spirits of anyone that was touched by them.
She was an excellent cook. There were always bread, jam and treats at her house for everyone to enjoy.
She was often surrounded by her children and grandchildren, whom she loved and adored. Janet loved spending time with her family and friends. Her sweet spirit always brought peace to those around her. There are no words to describe how special of person she was.  
Janet is survived by her husband, Kenneth Phillips; and children Kenneth Jr. (Julie) Phillips, LaRae (Vern) Thurber, Blaine Phillips, Jay (Laurie) Phillips, Brenda (Mike) Bloom, David (Karen) Phillips, Lorene (Boyd) Hall, Richard Phillips and James (Keri-Elena) Phillips; 45 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.  
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Afton Little, sisters Lawena Lenning and Iris Williams and two granddaughters.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, March 1, 2010, at the St. Anthony Stake Center, with Bishop Creed Webster officiating. A viewing will be held on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the stake center and also Monday from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the services at the church.
Burial will be in the Parker Cemetery under the direction of Bidwell Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent to www.bidwellfuneralhome.com.

 

Betty Mae Hansen Christiansen passed away February 24, 2010. She was born May 6, 1926, in Salem, Idaho to Chancy Hans and Edith Viola Forsgren Hansen. She was the oldest of five children. Raised in Lewisville, she learned the value of hard work and often talked of the teachings of her father as they labored in the fields. She valued her heritage and loved the land.

She graduated from Midway High School in 1944 and went on to attend Utah State Agricultural College (now Utah State University) graduating in 1948 with a double bachelor’s degree in Home Economics and English.

While at school, she met and married the love of her life, J Y Christiansen on December 20, 1946, in the Logan Utah Temple. She taught at Logan High School for a year while J Y completed his schooling.

J Y’s work with the BIA took them to Idaho, New Mexico, Arizona, Washington and back to New Mexico as they worked together to raise their family. They worked as a team and supported each other in all things. Church and family were first and foremost in Betty’s life.

After J Y retired in 1978, they moved to North Ogden, Utah so that they could be near the mountains and football for USU, BYU, and the U of U. After J Y’s death in 1993, Betty decided to move back to her parents homestead in Lewisville, Idaho. She felt an ongoing responsibility to watch over her children and grandchildren. She spent her final years under the loving care of daughter Susan.

Betty was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she served faithfully wherever called, her talents mostly being put to use in the Relief Society. She was an excellent seamstress and was known for her bread making, spudnuts for church bazaars and organizing church dinners. Betty and J Y were able to serve a mission to Roanoke, Virginia and especially loved the people of the outer banks of North Carolina.

Betty lived a life full of hard work and service to others. One of her greatest challenges after losing her sight was her inability to continue to work and serve the way she wanted.

Betty is survived by her children; Bradley J (Shirlee) Christiansen, of Kent, WA, Dale H. (Taffy) Christiansen, of Laveen, AZ, Marie (Edward) Winger, of Logan, UT, Susan (Bruce) Gardner, of Lewisville, Sisters: Bonnie Savage, of Hamer, Idaho, VeOna (Larry) Hendrickson, of Lewisville, a brother; Darrell (Lisa) Hansen, of Idaho Falls, 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; J Y, a sister; Joyce, and a granddaughter; Jacy, and a great-granddaughter; Jamie.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 1, 2010 at the Lewisville LDS Chapel with Bishop Jim Gneiting, conducting. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sunday and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., prior to services, both at the church. Burial will be in the Ben Lomond Cemetery in North Ogden, UT, on Monday, at 4:00 p.m., under the direction of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. The family would appreciate memorial contributions to; Talking Book Service, 325 W. State St. Boise, ID 83702. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com

 

Helen Holbrook Hibbert Chamberlain, 76, of Ashton, died Thursday, February 25, 2010 at the Ashton Living Center of natural causes. She was born June 27, 1933 in Saint Anthony, Idaho to Joseph Lamoni and Sarah Leola Wilkes Holbrook. She attended grade school in Marysville and high school in Ashton.

After graduating from high school, she worked in the local grocery stores. Later Helen earned her LPN in nursing and trained and worked at the hospital in Ashton.

She married John Nield Hibbert on August 19, 1953 in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. To this union a daughter was born on March 2, 1958. In 1973, Nield died from a rare form of Leukemia in Salt Lake City. Helen continued working and raising their daughter. In 1978, she met and married Thomas L. "Pete" Chamberlain and they moved back to where she lived as a small girl.

She was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many positions. She was a 40 year member of the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers.

She was a good wife, mother, sister and neighbor. She loved to embroider and do handiwork. She was an excellent homemaker. Her family and home always came first.

She is survived by her husband Thomas L. "Pete" Chamberlain of Ashton, daughter Barbara Ann "Bobbie" Hibbert of Ashton, a sister Beth Murdoch of St. George, Utah and two nephews Gary (Colleen) Hainsworth of Rigby and Kenneth (Irene) Hainsworth of Idaho Falls.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 1, 2010 at the Ashton Third Ward Chapel with Bishop Kevin Stevens officiating. The family will receive friends Monday from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at the church prior to services. Burial will in the Pineview Cemetery under the direction of Baxter Funeral Home.

 

Rose Dredge Ward passed away at the age of 92 on Monday, February 22, 2010 at the home of her grandchildren, Bryan and Jodi Bartschi in Wilford, ID where they tenderly cared for her for the past five months. She was born September 11, 1917 to Jessie H. Dredge and Nellie Martha Kunz in Malad, ID. She was the tenth of fifteen children. She attended schools in Malad and Utah State Agriculture College at Logan. She later traveled to New York and received her license as an Electrologist.

She married her neighbor and childhood friend, Rulon A. Ward on October 20, 1936 in the Logan LDS temple. They lived in Snowville, UT for 37 years where they ranched and raised their family. They then moved to Santa Clara, UT and lived there for the next twenty years. Rose was an avid gardener and loved beautiful flower gardens. She took great pride in a well kept yard and home. She worked as a Nurses Aide at the Dixie Medical Center in the newborn nursery which she enjoyed very much. She belonged to the Dixie Literary Club and delighted in giving descriptive book reviews. She was also an active member of the Daughter’s of the Utah Pioneers and enjoyed her association with so many good people.

She was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many church callings throughout her life. She was an influential teacher and loved the youth she served. She enjoyed attending the temple as often as possible. She served in the St. George temple for 13 years. She and Rulon enjoyed traveling and were privileged to spend time in Switzerland, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii and the Caribbean. Due to declining health in 1991 they sold their home in Santa Clara and moved to Sugar City where they felt welcome and at home for their remaining years.

Rose is survived by three of her children, Karolyn (Arlin) Bartschi of Sugar City, Sheila (Spencer) Daines of South Jordan, Ut, and George (Sheila) Ward of St. George, Ut, two sisters, Norma Hill of St. George, UT, and Elaine Mills of Malad, ID, four daughters-in-law, Marylynn Spahr of Malad, ID, Rebecca Brockbank of Bluffdale, Ut, Julia Ward of Spanish Fork, UT, and Barbara Atkin of St. George, Ut.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Rulon A. Ward, two sons, David R. Ward and Allen D. Ward, granddaughter, Rosanne Bartschi and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, March 1, 2010 at the Sugar City LDS Stake Center with Bishop Russell Thurston officiating. Friends may call Sunday evening from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Flamm Funeral Home in Rexburg and Monday prior to services from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the stake center. Interment will be in the Sugar City Cemetery.

A special thanks to the staff of Hospice Alliance for their care and service to our dear mother and grandmother. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the LDS Humanitarian Fund, Missionary Fund or Perpetual Education Fund. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.flammfh.com

 

Fred J Standifird, 79, of Menan, died Sunday, Feb. 21, 2010, at Lily & Syringa in Idaho Falls. He was under the care of Creekside Hospice.

Fred was born March 6, 1930, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, a son of William Earl Standifird and Sarah Lenore Molen Standifird. He attended Menan schools, graduating from Midway High School. He was active in the Boy Scouts of America and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He worked in the potato industry in eastern Idaho. He enjoyed hiking and camping in the Tetons, stamp collecting and was a member of the Idaho Audubon Society.

He is survived by a sister, Wilma Wesley of Houston, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26, at the Menan LDS 2nd Ward, 3547 E. Menan Lorenzo Highway. The family will visit with friends from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Friday at the church.

Burial will be in Annis-Little Butte Cemetery under the direction of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com.

The family will appreciate donations to the Boy Scouts, charity of choice or the humane society.

 

Gerald Ray "Jerry" Walchli, 72, of Rigby, died Feb. 20, 2010, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls.

Memorial services are pending at Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby.

Wray Landon, 30, of Jackson, Wyoming, died in an avalanche while skiing the South Teton in Grand Teton National Park on February 21, 2010.

Wray was born in Westerly, Rhode Island, to Wray and Winifred "Lani" Lanier Landon on September 6, 1979. He spent many happy years of his youth in North Stonington, Connecticut, with his childhood friends. He moved with his family to Idaho Falls in 1983, where the family's purchase of a tandem bicycle solidified Wray and Dana's lifelong love of spending time as a family in the outdoors. He moved back to Connecticut in 1986 and finally back to the Intermountain West in 1991. His life was changed when he joined the Kelly Canyon Ski Team and developed his life's passion for skiing and the mountains. He raced in junior high, high school and college. KCST truly shaped his future.

Wray attended elementary school in North Stonington, Connecticut, and junior and senior high schools in Idaho Falls, where he excelled in swimming and graduated in 1997. He graduated in 2001 with a bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies from the University of Montana, where he found his passions for rock climbing, running and everything outdoors, and met many lifelong friends. He also developed a strong love for the environment, which later steered his career. Wray did everything in his own time, just missing the opportunity to start running with his Mother following her knee surgery and forced to change from running to power walking. Nevertheless, their always strong and loving relationship grew ever stronger through their many activities including skiing, canoeing, hiking and biking (but never a shared joy of heights and edges). Their every phone call ended with "Love you." He was a summer employee with the Post Register during his high school years, where he developed his love for writing. During, and shortly after, his college years, Wray was a wildland firefighter with the BLM where routine-training sessions cemented his love of running. He moved on to environmental work with Intermountain Aquatics in Driggs, Idaho.

Wray found his perfect career with the Teton Regional Land Trust in Driggs. He began in 2007 as an intern supporting the stewardship staff. A man of few words, Wray's skills in the field spoke volumes and the Land Trust hired him as a full-time Resource Specialist. He soon became essential to the conservation of private lands in eastern Idaho, undertaking the field work necessary to inventory the natural resources on many of the conservation projects completed by the Land Trust during his tenure. His fieldwork and knowledge of the resources helped guide the permanent contracts negotiated with landowners to protect private lands. His good sense and courtesy endeared him to the landowners with whom the Land Trust worked, helping build those strong relationships essential to the conservation of private lands. His surveys of Yellowstone cutthroat redds, sandhill cranes in Teton Valley, song birds on the South Fork and waterfowl along the Henry's Fork, added to the knowledge of wildlife resources in eastern Idaho. Wray was a skilled naturalist and biologist who developed an impressive understanding of the natural systems of the Upper Snake River Watershed and applied his knowledge with fervor and skill toward the stewardship of protected lands. At the time of his death, Wray was deeply involved in a project that will someday protect thousands of acres of important habitat along the Henry's Fork River. He had particular interest in birds. Most recently, he was managing the organization's bird monitoring program. Wray worked tirelessly in and out of the office to advance conservation with a calm manner in the face of frantic deadlines. He brought out the best in his fellow Land Trust friends with his resolve, humility and sense of humor. Wray's wit, like the man himself, was characteristically understated and on target -- often conveying the humor in a situation with a couple of wry words and a twinkle in his eye.

In the second chapter of Lonesome Dove, Augustus McCrae asks his partner "when were you the happiest -- just being a live human being free on the earth." For Wray, the answer was breaking trail before the break of dawn, in the eye of a raging Teton storm, up Mt. Taylor. Wray Landon was the consummate mountain man: ferociously strong, sharply intuitive and deeply passionate. His daily habit easily earned his nickname "Everyday Wray" -- as the early morning Taylor excursions were often followed by evening Glory runs. In the summer, he quietly became known as the fellow whose after- work runs ended on the summit of the Grand where he rarely missed the sunset from the summit. Wray's enormous athletic talent was well known to his partners and the subject of many race victories across the region. He was always more than happy to adjust his pace so that he could enjoy backcountry skiing adventures with his father. It is a wonderful situation when a father can learn immeasurably from a son. Not even his boundless athletic talent matched his humility. More than any, Wray spent his life happy -- a free human being -- alive on the earth.

Wray shared his love of the outdoors with his parents and sister, Dana. From her home in Seattle, Dana's relationship with Wray became long distance due to his aversion to the city life. Staying connected through frequent phone calls, the relationship became stronger as she developed a true understanding that he was always the best counsel and true friend to her and everyone that he came into contact with. His humor and positive attitude inspired and brought the best out in everyone.

Wray is survived by his parents, Wray and Lani of Idaho Falls; his sister, Dana Lanier Landon and her husband, Don Forney, of Seattle, Washington; and many loving aunts, uncles, nephews and cousins; and an immense group of close friends including Krissy Copeland, who spent seven happy years with him in the Teton Valley with their dog, Camus. Prior to her return from India, Krissy sent a lotus flower gift down the Ganges in remembrance of Wray, as the Himalayas was a place Wray always wanted to visit.

A memorial service will be at 2 pm. Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010, at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church, 270 N. Placer in Idaho Falls, with the Rev. Susan E. Speir officiating. A gathering of family and friends will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, February 28, 2010, at the foot of the Tetons in Alta, Wyoming, at the Teton Tepee on Ski Hill road.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Teton Regional Land Trust, 146 223 S. Highway 33 Driggs, ID 83422, to the "Wray Landon Legacy Fund." Online condolences for the family may be left at www.buckmillerhann.com.

 

Maria Antonia Paulino Flores, 27, of Roberts, died Feb. 15, 2010, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

A rosary will be at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 27, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St. in Idaho Falls. The family will receive friends following the rosary service until 9 p.m. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.coltrinmortuary.com.

 

Dennis W. Nelson, 80, of Archer, passed away February 20th, 2010 at home of causes incident to age, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born January 19, 1930 in Archer, Idaho to George F. And Isabel Weekes Nelson. He graduated from Madison High School. Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Rita Johnson in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on November 18, 1948. They are the parents of 9 children, 28 grandchildren, and 37 great grandchildren.

Dennis worked for the U & I Sugar Company and Kraft Cheese briefly. He then worked for the State of Idaho Department of Transportation for 27 years. In addition to his full-time employment he spent his life farming and raising beef cattle.

Dennis achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and served in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout his life including serving in Scouting, the Young Men’s Athletic Program, the Sunday School Presidency and High Priest Group leadership.

Dennis is survived by his wife Rita, children Lyle (Gale) Nelson of Blanchard, Oklahoma, Steven Nelson of Rexburg, Idaho, Carol (Alan) Neilson of Salt Lake City, Utah, Garth (Kathleen) Nelson of Rexburg, Idaho, Denise (David) Stoddard of West Jordan, Utah, Weston (Peggy) Nelson of Rexburg, Idaho, Peggy (Russ) Pyle of Draper, Utah, Lisa (Jerry) Corbett of West Jordan, Utah, and Gina Nelson of Murray, Utah, as well as two sisters Zula Kidd of Rigby and Glenna McCulloch of Rexburg, and a brother Reid (Diane) Nelson of Desert Hot Springs California.

He was preceded in death by his parents George and Isabel Nelson and three brothers; Chester, Lynn and John Nelson.

Dennis was a hard-working, generous and loving husband, father and grandfather and he will be missed!

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 25, 2010 at the Archer LDS Church, Bishop Reese Nelson officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday, at church, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. and again from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, prior to services. Interment will be in the Sutton Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.flammfh.com