J. Keith Hirschi

John Keith Hirschi, 85, long-time Pocatello resident, passed away peacefully Friday, March 4, 2011, at a local care facility.

Keith was born April 28, 1925 to John Henry and Mabel (Peterson) Hirschi. He was the oldest of seven children. He was a graduate of Sugar-Salem High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from June 1942 " December 1945 on a sub chaser.

Upon returning from his military service, he met and fell in love with Velma Wolverton. They were married June 19, 1946 and deeply enjoyed the next 64 years. He worked for Garrett Freightlines for 40 years as a truck driver. He coached Little League Baseball for many years and took several teams to Malad for tournaments. For about 30 years he was very active in the Boy Scouts of America and spent much time with many boys during that time. He attended Jamborees with his sons.

Keith was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many positions, including Scout Master, High Counselor, and Bishop. He served two full-time missions with his sweetheart; the first to the Canada Vancouver Mission in 1989 and in Jamaica in 1993. He was loved by everyone. He was a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

Keith is survived by his loving wife, Velma Wolverton Hirschi, Pocatello; sons, Larry (Sandra) Hirschi, West Jordan, UT; Gary (Beverly) Hirschi, Chubbuck, ID; Tarry (Cindy) Hirschi, American Falls, ID; Hal (Debbie) Hirschi, Pocatello, ID; a daughter, Janet (Ron) Wright, Herriman, UT; 35 grandchildren, and 96 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers, Lavere (Rae) Hirschi, Pocatello; Brent (Evelyn) Hirschi, Idaho Falls; and a sister, Laurel Thomas, Ogden, UT.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mabel Hirschi; sister, Vora Richardson; brother, Gordon Hirschi; and two grandsons, Dereck Wright and Jeremy Hirschi.

Keith's family would like to express their gratitude to Hillcrest Haven staff, and owner, Lynda Pfaff, Creekside Home Health and Hospice, and we know he appreciated the daily loving care given by the family members.

Please share your memories, condolences and photos of Keith for his family to cherish.

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