Rodney Sturgill

Rodney “Rick” Sturgill, 65, passed away peacefully at his home, Sunday, February 10, 2013, with his family by his side, from long complications associated with Agent Orange. Rick was born March, 08, 1947 at Twin Falls, Idaho to William and Florence Sturgill. Rick was raised in Filer, Idaho where he attended school and played football for Filer High School. Upon graduating high school, Rick then attended the C.S.I. (College of Southern Idaho). He then enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam. Rick loved boxing. While in the Army, he took 1st in the Welterweight Division at a competition in Germany. Upon leaving the Army, he then began to teach Mathematics at C.S.I. along with earning a degree in Metallurgy. To make extra money while being a teacher, Rick also painted houses on the side. In 1973, Rick joined the Boilermakers Local #182, and worked with them up until his retirement. He worked many places doing heavy construction with the Boilermakers.

Rick met the love of his life, LaRue “Pete” I. Chavez, in 1977. They were married in 1979 and upon his death, had been married for 33 years. From this union, two daughters were born: Shannen and Mickey. Rick and Pete made their home in McCammon for 30 years, where they owned the Yellow Rose Ranch. They raised their children there, along with cows, horses, a bull named Ferdinand and many other animals.

Rick was a simple man. He was very family oriented and enjoyed spending time watching the grandchildren rodeo and dance ballet. He loved Ford pick-ups, listening to music, making wood cradles and trucks for his grandkids and gold panning. Rick was very patriotic and was proud to have served his country. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, camping and anything outdoors.

Rick's family would like to thank Creekside Home Health and Encompass Hospice, along with a special thank you, to Niki, Royanna, Danielle, Kris and Cree for taking such good care of Rick with all of his needs over the years. Your kindness and help has been much appreciated.

Rick is survived by his wife, LaRue “Pete” Sturgill, (Pocatello, Id), daughters: Shannen Sturgill Frey, (Pocatello, Id), Mickey (John Jr.) Palmer, (Pocatello, Id), five grandkids: Chelsie Henderson, Shaela Gilbert, Rick (R.J.) Palmer (Pocatello, Id), Lacee Peterson and Paige Peterson, (Blackfoot, Id), sister-in-laws: Kathy (Don) Eckly, (Burley, Id), Carol (Mike) Hanks, (Acequia, Id), Bobbie (Arthur) Mills, (Wy), Gail Marquez, (Burley, Id), Lenny (Rick) Marker, (Casper, Wy), Sherry (Les) Beebinger, (Evanston, Wy), brother, Larry (Hazel) Sturgill, (Tacoma, Wa), sisters: Leona (Ron) Harris, (Galt, Ca), Cynthia (Don) Curtis, (Nampa, Id), Nina (Larry) Zurek, (Boise, Id), several nieces and nephews, and one special cousin, Donna (Gary) Ferrenburg (Kimberly, Id).

He was preceded in death by both parents.

Service information will be posted under the "Service Schedule" tab above.

Please take a moment to share your condolences with the family.