"Jack" Briggs

Ernest John "Jack" Briggs, 78, passed away peacefully May 12, 2010 at his home in Shelley, Idaho.

Jack was born July 3, 1931, in Newdale, Idaho to Ernest L. Briggs and Bertha M. Briggs.  He grew up on the family farm located on the banks of the Teton River.  He graduated from Sugar Salem High School and joined the US Navy when he was 19 to serve as a Seabee in the Philippine Islands during the Korean Conflict.

He was married to Nila M. Briggs on July 23, 1953, they had five children together and were later divorced.  On August 31, 1974 he married Betty Yorgensen Burns, who has been his loving companion for 36 years.

Jack was a journeyman electrician and started his own electrical contracting business.  He retired from RT French’s in 1993 where he worked as a plant mechanic and maintenance supervisor.  He and Betty later moved to Island Park where he worked at his dream job as a summer ranger for the US Forest Service. 

Jack loved the Idaho mountains and was an avid outdoorsman.  When he wasn’t gardening or building things, he spent his spare time boating, fishing and trail riding in the summer, hunting in the fall and riding snow machines in the winter.  He loved sports and especially enjoyed watching his grandkids compete.

Jack was preceded in death by his father, mother and three step children, Jerry Burns, Patti Burns and Juanita Russell.

He is survived by his wife; Betty, his five children; Kathy Galloway (Rick) of Phoenix AZ, Ron Briggs (Jeri), Randy Briggs (Karen) both of Idaho Falls ID, Lisa Roach (Jerry) of Charlotte NC and Susan Briggs (Nancy) of Phoenix AZ, and 10 grandchildren.

Jack will be remembered by his friends as a quiet, private man with a quick wit.  He will be remembered by his children as loving father who imparted a love of the outdoors and the value of hard work.

The family would like to acknowledge the kindness and compassion of Creekside Home Health and Hospice. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Creekside Home Health and Hospice, 3686 Washington Pkwy, Idaho Falls, ID 83404.

Private family services will be held at a later date under the direction of Nalder Funeral Home.  Condolences may be emailed to jackbriggs101@yahoo.com.