Gary Beardall

Gary Lee Beardall, 76, of Idaho Falls, passed away October 8, 2024, at his home. He was under the care of Symbii Home Health and Hospice and his loving wife.

Gary was born December 30, 1947, in Provo, Utah, to Max Clyde Beardall and Thelma Nielsen Beardall. He grew up in Springville, Utah, and graduated from Springville High School. He also attended Utah Valley University, obtaining a degree in Commercial Art.

In 1968, he married Leslie Ivins, and had a daughter, Lee, whom he called the pride and joy of his life. They later divorced, and Gary moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho.

In 1978, he married Elaine “Badger” Meador, who he spent many happy years with and who preceded him in death.

In 2004, he married friend and partner-in-crime, Kathy “crazy woman” Freeman. Together, they joined their families and made their home in Idaho Falls.

Gary had a career with Coca-Cola for over 30 years and held various other skilled jobs.

He was a member of the Russet Lions Club and the Gem and Mineral Society. He was also a Scoutmaster and Idaho Falls Reserve Police Officer. He was a great outdoorsman and was a talented artist mastering multiple disciplines such as flint knapping, wood carving, drawing, pottery, and so much more.

For those who knew Gary personally, he was known as “the humble one.” A friend to many and loved by all. One of his greatest joys in life was spending time with family and friends. He cherished his time at his cabin and enjoyed going out for coffee with his cronies, often twice a day. His animated storytelling could captivate anyone. He was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

Gary is survived by his wife, Kathy Beardall of Idaho Falls, ID; daughter, Anna Lee (John) Kramer of Lewisville, ID; daughter, Stacey Freeman of Colorado Springs, CO; son, Eric (Cristy) Freeman of Menan, ID; son, Jared (Trisha) Freeman of Boise, ID; grandchildren, Torson (Emily Bloomer) Kramer, Colby (Amy) Kramer, Alex Bell, Cade Freeman, Morgan Freeman, Ryan Freeman, Brady Freeman, and Greyson Freeman; and two great-grandchildren, Ender Bloomer-Kramer and Thor Kramer.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Elaine Beardall; parents, Max and Thelma Beardall; brothers, Blaine Beardall and Howard Beardall; infant sister, Thelma Larae Beardall; and daughter-in-law, Trisha Freeman.

The family would like to extend their deep thanks and appreciation to Rachelle with Symbii Hospice, Dr. Adams, Dr. Haws, and Maria Dela Torre for the skilled and respectful care they each provided.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon Road. The family will visit with friends Saturday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodwoodfuneralhome.com.