Tanner Hercules Rios

Tanner Hercules Rios, 46, passed away on July 8, 2024.

On September 15th of 1977 in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, Tanner Hercules Rios entered the world. He was raised by his loving Mamita, Rufina Rios. His homelife was anything but ideal, bouncing around to whoever would take him in. Despite his hardships Tanner found joy in climbing trees, kicking soccer balls, and buying shoes. All his life he had incredible drive and ambition. Tanner loved fiercely, striving to learn and excel at whatever he did. Even from a young age Tanner protected those around him, often ending in fist fights. He had a wild spirit that led him to do stupid things like jumping from moving trucks or dumping nasty water on janitors. His beautiful mind led him to America, chasing his dreams and not letting anything stop him. He was stubborn as a mule, but that same stubbornness allowed him to find his life in Elizabeth, New Jersey. 

One night, falling to his knees in prayer, Tanner made a promise to God. With his head in his hands he vowed to change his ways. Feeling prompted, Tanner stumbled out onto his porch where he encountered a crazy haired blonde missionary, who he believed to be a nun with anger issues. Gambling on not getting punched by the nun he invited Sister Lish and her companion into his apartment. Together, Sister Lish and her companion began teaching him the Gospel of which he readily accepted. Knowing in his heart that what they spoke of is true. After missionary lessons from the Sisters and shameless flirting on Tanner’s part towards Sister Lish, he was baptized on September 10, 2000, becoming a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. 

Eventually Sister Lish returned home to Inkom Idaho not knowing that Tanner would follow suit. Inviting himself into the Lish home for Christmas, he met his future in-laws for the first time.The language barrier did not stop the connection between Tanner and the Lish family, they took him in like one of their own. On September 20, 2001 Mandy and Tanner were married and sealed in the Logan Temple. Five children were born of this union: Jake, Miah, Sophie, Vanna, and Ben, along with Jake’s future wife, Kylee. 

The Rios kids were raised on a soccer field. Following their father’s passion in soccer. Thousands of lives were blessed because of Tanner’s coaching efforts. Soccer was not only a sport to him, it was a lifestyle. His passion was evident every time he watched his kids, both biological and not. His love for the game was reflected in the way he coached, the way he watched, the way he cheered, and the way he yelled at refs. The players became part of his family and he loved them as such. Over the years Tanner created a league, started multiple travel teams, and gave thousands of kids the opportunity to love the sport as much as he did.

When not on the soccer field, Tanner could be found alongside a river casting line after line with his little boy. Fishing brought him such joy, it was a pastime he shared with his kids, nieces and nephews. It didn’t matter how many fish he caught, he lit up like Christmas with every bite and catch. 

No one was more proud of where they worked than Tanner. He was a Caterpillar man through and through. Tanner’s passion and ambitions paved the way for his successful career as a diesel mechanic. His profession steered the Rios family to many different homes, where family-like connections were made along the way. Tanner loved what he did, he did it well and became a mentor and teacher to others. His hands, strong and beautiful, reflected the hard-working man who owned them. 

Tanner protected his family with every fiber of his being, leaving no one to question his love and devotion. He fought for those he loved, did not rest until everyone was cared for, and had superhuman strength. His father spidey-senses were unmatched, knowing exactly when others needed saving. 

Tanner devoted his time and energy into serving his church callings to their full potential. Every Sunday he would excitedly put on his suit and purple tie to go out and serve the Lord. Tanner recognized all of the blessings in his life and even in his darkest times his belief in the Savior did not falter. 

For forty seven years Tanner blessed the lives of others through his passion. He fought and loved until his dying breath. Soccer, fishing, and shoes were his love, but nothing compared to what he felt for his family and his Savior.

A celebration of life will be held from 6:00 - 7:30 pm on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,  403 W 16th Street, McCammon, ID 83250.  A graveside service will follow at 8:00 pm at the Inkom Cemetery.

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