David Lew Ferro

1950 - 2025

Caldwell - Dave's final wrestling match was with pulmonary fibrosis, and he was pinned on December 7, 2025. Surrounded by loved ones, he passed away at home in Caldwell, Idaho - a fitting place for a man whose roots ran deep in the community he loved.

David Lew Ferro was born on February 1, 1950, in Nampa, Idaho, the eighth of nine children born to Ross R. Ferro and Dorothy Patient Campbell. He grew up in a lively, bustling household that shaped his grit, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Dave was preceded in death by his parents and all eight of his siblings: Joan (Mike) Cayler, Jackie (JL) Amos, Gary (Doris) Ferro, Bill (Judy) Ferro, DaleAnn Cayler, Maggie (Dean) Hale, Doris (Steve) Willmorth, and Kathy (Bill) Wells. Being the last sibling to leave this life, he often joked that he "finally won by outlasting the bunch of them," and we are comforted picturing the joyful reunion happening now.

Dave graduated from Caldwell High School in 1969, where he was a standout athlete and devoted sports enthusiast. His dedication to fitness earned him the honor of representing Caldwell High School in Washington, D.C. as part of the Presidential Physical Fitness Program. He spent the following year at Ricks College (1969-1970), playing football and earning a wrestling scholarship - a sport that became a lifelong metaphor for how he tackled challenges: head-on, with grit, and usually with a grin.

In 1970, Dave enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served honorably during the Vietnam conflict until 1972. His sharp mind earned him a position as an intelligence analyst, and once he completed his service, he continued his education by taking classes through the College of Southern Idaho. He went on to earn his associate degree from CSI in 1973.

In 1972, while taking classes at CSI, Dave met a beautiful girl from southern Idaho, Karen Warr. Their first conversation led to a 53-year marriage filled with devotion, teamwork, humor, and countless construction projects. Together they raised three sons - David (Melyssa) Ferro, Ben Ferro, and Brent (Joann) Ferro - and watched their family grow to include eleven grandchildren: Kelsey, Keegan, and Keira Ferro; Max, Rex, and Ty Ferro; Chris Gomez; Cyrus Salcedo; Mercedes Aguilar; Isaac Ferro; and Ben Ferro.

Dave continued his education at Boise State University, graduating in 1976 with a bachelor's degree in Industrial Arts Education. He then began a long and meaningful career teaching industrial arts at Vallivue High School in Caldwell. He coached football and wrestling, served as a scout both as a youth and as a leader, and shaped generations of students with his steady presence, high expectations, and dry humor.

But the trades were more than a job for Dave - they were fundamental to who he was. He was happiest with sawdust in his hair, a project in progress, and one of his boys working alongside him. In addition to teaching, he ran a successful contracting business and built homes with his sons, passing down not just skills, but a deep sense of craftsmanship, work ethic, and pride.

Family always came first. When nieces or nephews found themselves in trouble, they knew exactly who to call. Uncle Dave would show up, offer a firm scolding, deliver a life lesson or two, and then roll up his sleeves to solve the problem - usually faster than anyone thought possible.

In his final days, Dave's hands were still busy. He carved a series of whimsical wooden characters, each one shaped with precision and care, and Karen lovingly painted them for him. Even at the end, he was creating, building, and leaving behind something beautiful.

Dave will be remembered for his strength, his humor, his generosity, and the way he showed love through action. His legacy is carved - quite literally - into the wood he shaped, the homes he built, the athletes he coached, and the family he cherished above all else.

Graveside services will be held at Canyon Hill Cemetery on Saturday, December 13th at 10 am with a family luncheon following at 12 pm at Golden Corral in Nampa.