Eldon "Dee" Rice

Eldon “Dee” Rice, 90, of Pocatello, Idaho, passed away on September 25, 2023. He was born on March 26, 1933, in St. Anthony, Idaho, the son of David “Eldon” and Zelda Burnside Rice. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen and their children and their spouses: Ron and Kathy Rice, Dave and Debbie Rice, Bob and Susan Rice, Jon and Sandra Rice, Nate and Julia Rice. One brother Marvin Rice. Dee leaves a memorable legacy of love and memories in the minds and hearts of 16 grandchildren and 27 great grand-children. Dee was proceeded in death by his parents, one sister (Donna Rice Cameron), one son (Robert “Bob” Rice), and one grandson (Casey Dee Rice).

Dee married Ellen Mecham in the Idaho Falls LDS temple on September 2, 1955. They were wrapped in a ball and chain for 68 memorable loving years.

Together they had five sons. Dee was devoted to them as father. He never missed a chance to instill a love for fast and custom cars. He had a lifelong love affair with cars. Dee was always in for a new adventure. Drag racing, boating, street rod building, house and cabin building, playing cards, and many other activities.

Many good times were had helping Dee achieve his life dream of building a cabin overlooking Bear Lake. A lot of fun times were had and memories made with family there. He was always available to help his boys on any of their projects. He was very proud of their achievements.

Dee was somewhat of a self-educated guy with some school instruction. He graduated from Pocatello High School (Class of 1951) and Idaho State College (Architecture 1959). He later completed courses at Weber State College in Industrial Engineering which enabled him to take the licensing exam in mechanical engineering. He obtained a professional engineering license in Washington State while working for Vitro Engineering. Dee could fix or repair anything that moved, mostly cars. He loved to tickle the ivories (piano) and tackling the tuba (high school band).

Dee worked for many years as an engineer and started a family-owned Testing and Balancing business. Ron, Bob, Jon and Nate were his willing workers. Dave remained playing with choo-choo trains. He loved to travel around the country doing different projects and seeing beautiful country.

Dee served his country by enlisting in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War as a teleman mate and mail clerk. He loved being his own boss. He was always loyal to his country and was a proud veteran.

Dee was active in his faith. Dee was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He and his eternal companion served two missions for the church.

Everyone who remembers him is asked to celebrate Dee’s life in their own way. Raising a glass of their favorite drink (Dee’s favorite was Coke) along with a Hostess Twinkie in his memory would be appropriate. If that doesn’t work for you, donations to OldDragRacers.com or SOBHusbands.org are suggested.

Dee’s life will be celebrated at funeral services on Friday, September 29, 2023. A viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral services, which will be at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will be held at Restlawn Cemetery in Pocatello.

We will always be grateful for the love and care of our family, friends, neighbors and others who gave so generously of their time, labor, support, good cheer, blessings and laughter for Dee.

Thank you to Heritage Home Health and Hospice and Sandra Rice who took such good and loving care of him.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family under the Tribute Wall tab above.