Theo "Ted" Arnold Pharris

Theo "Ted" Arnold Pharris, 87, of Pocatello, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2015 at Portneuf Medical Center. Theo was born on September 5, 1927, in Pocatello to Lillie Clegg and Alfred Pharris. In 1943 he began railroading in Pocatello as a machinist apprentice. He enlisted in the Army in 1945 and served in Germany with the 14 th Armored Calvary. He met his future wife, Elisabeth, while in Schweinfurt. They were married in 1952 and returned to the United States. Together, they raised two sons; William and Theo. The Union Pacific Railroad transferred Ted to Glenns Ferry where they lived for 20 years before returning to Pocatello in 1973 where he continued to work as a conductor until his medical retirement in 1989. He was a life member of VFW Post 3646 in Glenns Ferry, the Military Order of the Cooties, the Union Pacific Old Timers, U.S. Constabulary Association and a member of the United Transportation Union. He was a wonderful and loving Opa. He always had a pocketful of candy to tempt your sweet tooth. He enjoyed gardening, coin collecting, and his daily visits to see his sister, Ruth, until her passing in December. He took great pride in being a member of the Pocatello Honor Guard. Theo is survived by his sons, William A. (Donna) Pharris, Theo A. Pharris; brother, Ray (Diane) Pharris; 6 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elisabeth; parents; a sister, Ruth; and brothers, Donald and Tiney. The family would like to thank Gayle and Lorraine for all of their kindness and support for both Oma and Opa. A graveside service, with Military Honors, will be held on Friday, May 8, 2015 at 1:00 PM at Mountain View Cemetery (44 East), 1520 S. 5 th Ave. Pocatello, Idaho 83204. Arrangements are under the care of Colonial Funeral Home 2005 S. 4 th Ave. Pocatello, ID 208-233-1500. Condolences can be made to the family online at www.colonial-funeralhome.com