Gem county resident and Idaho native, Franklin “J” Gatfield, passed away at home November 29th, 2020 surrounded by his loving family and friends. “J” was born in Emmett Idaho, March of 1953. He graduated from Emmett High School as a member of the class of 1971. The next year he married his best friend and love of his life, Delma Izatt Gatfield. They were married for 48.5 years and had two amazing children and three vivacious grandchildren.
“J” retired from Idaho Power Company in 2011, after a 31-year career as a fabricator. During his long career he obtained several professional certifications and enjoyed being part of a company where he could give his best and provide electricity to his home state. He served his community in many ways as a Board Member of Squaw Creek Soil Conservation District, Horseshoe Bend School Board, Northwest Bison Association, and Horological Society of Idaho #153.
“J” and Delma enjoyed a country lifestyle on their small ranch in Montour where they grew a Bison herd, farmed alfalfa hay, and spoiled their Schnauzers. He spent his free time rebuilding International Harvester Tractors, several farming implements, and classic Jeeps. He felt most at home in Idaho’s mountains and back-country: whether it was exploring a ghost town, discovering unique geological formations, hunting, fishing, or just seeing what lay beyond the next bend in the road.
“J” was proceeded in death by his parents Harvey and Selmah Gatfield, his brother-in-law Royal Nevers, and his Sister-in-law Ivel Burrell.
“J” is survived by his wife Delma Gatfield, siblings Boyd (Virginia) Gatfield and Kathy Nevers children Todd (Amy) Gatfield and Mindi (Robert) Wurster, grandchildren Destany Gatfield, Chance Gatfield, and Clayton Wurster, and his dog Deezal.
Memorial donations can be made to the Northwest Bison Association, ATTN: Marta Stangel, 65044 Alder Slope Rd., Enterprise, OR 97828.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, December 4, 2020 at the Potter Funeral Chapel. Visitation is one hour prior to the Service at the Chapel. Burial will follow in the Sweet - Montour Cemetery. The Service will be Webcast live, via potterchapel.com and going to “J”s obituary page, then scroll down and you will see where to watch live. The service can be watched anytime by going to the same location and scrolling down to see where to watch the service.
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