George Kenneth Gillihan

George Gillihan, 91, of Emmett, Idaho, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2024, in a Boise hospital. Graveside services will be held at 2:30 PM, Saturday, Nov. 2 at the Emmett Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life will be held thereafter at the Emmett Nazarene Church (1144 N Washington Ave).

George was born on March 2, 1933, in Gannet, Idaho, to John and Minnie Gillihan. He was third in a family of ten children. Over his lifetime he had many occupations, the first being working with his dad and brothers. He was a packer, wilderness guide, farmer, rancher, truck driver and self-taught craftsman. George’s top priority was always family. He met and married the love of his life, Veda McMahon in 1962. They had five wonderful children: Don Stine. Mike Gillihan, Rick Gillihan, Heidi Gillihan (Draper) and Kenny Gillihan, 14 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild.

He was a dedicated family man, and he attended every celebration for his immediate and extended families. He knew each child’s name and age, and his memory for events was remarkable. “Just call George” was the solution to many questions. He was the best brother to his siblings and was always there when needed. He had a quiet demeanor and was very soft spoken, unless he needed to make a point. He once made a passionate speech at a family reunion, reminding the family where they came from and how important his dad, Big John, had been in preserving family heritage and ethics. George’s sense of humor was epic. He loved teasing people and making them laugh, especially the children. He loved fishing, camping and working in his yard. George will be forever in our hearts, thoughts and memories.  

George was preceded in death by his son, Mike Gillihan; parents, Minnie Gillihan, John Gillihan and Elsie Gillihan; brothers Jack, Bob, Harold, and Milton Gillihan; sister Anna May Wyman, and nephews Kevin and Kelly Gillihan.  

He is survived by his wife, Veda Gillihan; daughter, Heidi (Kevin ) Draper; sons Don Stine, Rick (Lexy) Gillihan, and Kenny Gillihan; brothers Ray (Susie) Gillihan, Roy (Renette) Gillihan, and  Pat Gillihan; sister Kristy (Rick) Scaraglino; grandchildren Brandon (Angela), Heather (Jose), Mike (Mardi), Matthew, Johnna, Ashley (David), Lindsey (Travis), Carson, Chelsea (Joe), Kalli, Nik, Violet, Alder and Noble, and numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face;  
the rains fall soft upon your fields
and until we meet again,  
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
   ~Irish Blessing

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