Gary Lee Calkins

Gary Lee Calkins of Boise, Idaho, passed away at St Luke’s Nampa Medical Center on October 10, 2018, at 2:25 p.m. at the age of 63.

Gary was born the youngest of 11 children to Albert and Goldie Calkins in Great Falls, Montana, on January 29, 1955. He married Lenore Dean Calkins for time and all eternity on July 30, 1975, in the Logan, Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gary was a loving and caring husband to Lenore and father to their 7 children. They were blessed with 15 grandchildren, whom Gary loved spending time with. Their children and grandchildren are now spread around the country, and Gary loved traveling to visit them:

Chad & Amy Calkins of Denver, Colorado, and their children Garret, Parker, Katie and Cole
Aaron & Debbie Calkins of Springfield, Virgina, and their children Mason, Cole and Lincoln
Laura & Rick Welchly of Vancouver, Washington, and their children JessiGrace and Lily
Derreck & Joanna Calkins of Reno, Nevada, and their children Cooper, Ila & Chad
Alex & Sara James of San Diego, California
Adam & Megan Calkins of Nampa, Idaho, and their children Beth & Graham
Brett & Desi Calkins of Bountiful, Utah, and their child Bram

Gary was a 22-year veteran of the United States Air Force and retired as a Senior Master Sergeant after being stationed around the world, including spending 4 years in Germany and 1 year away from his family serving in the Gulf War.

Gary had a deep love for the Outdoors and Scouting. All 6 of the Calkins boys are Eagle Scouts. Gary served as a Scoutmaster, Camp Director and District Executive for the Inland Northwest Council during his 40 years of Scouting.

Gary also loved Fishing, Sports (particularly BSU Football), Leatherworking and Writing. In 2012 Gary published his first book, Facts and History of Idaho.

Gary had a contagious energy and love for life. He loved people and always prioritized service to others. Even after being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, his sense of humor and love for people stayed until the very end.

Viewing services will be held Wednesday, October 17, 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Relyea Funeral Chapel, 318 N. Latah St., Boise.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 18, 10:30 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 11443 W. McMillian Rd., Boise, with a visitation preceding from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.