Gary L. Mahn

1943 - 2025

Boise - Gary L. Mahn, 81, of Boise, Idaho, passed away on May 24, 2025. A devoted husband, father and "papa," Gary was known for his kindness, positivity, and love for family, friends, faith and community.

Born in Spokane, Washington in 1943, Gary's authenticity and warmth made him a natural mentor and leader. He was student body president at Lewis and Clark High School and earned an ROTC scholarship to the University of Idaho, where he studied accounting and led the Sigma Nu fraternity as president. In 1966, Gary married Kathleen Harrison in Moscow, Idaho. After graduating, he served in the United States Navy while Kathy taught art in Norfolk, Virginia.

Gary earned his MBA at the Wharton School of Business then moved to Boise in 1972, where he became a CPA and joined Ernst & Ernst. He and Kathy adopted their daughter Elizabeth and shortly after had their son Richard. For five decades, Gary thrived as a visionary businessman and community leader. He owned Fisher's Stationery, co-founded the Downtown Boise Association, and launched the Alive After Five concert series. He also co-founded Learned-Mahn, an early Idaho software company, and served as Commerce Director for the State of Idaho, championing rural economic development.

Relationships were the heart of Gary's life. For decades he joined his buddies in the "running group" at the YMCA for early morning runs while laughing, whining, and solving the world's problems. He loved golf and fondly recalled when he and his father-in-law won their flight in a Hillcrest Country Club tournament. Camping and encouraging his family's pursuits were favorite activities, as were teaching youth to fish and water ski. Gary relished his time in McCall, patiently trolling along the shores of Payette Lake to catch "the big one" and carving through fresh powder at Brundage. Later in life, he valued attending Bible Study Fellowship with his son and friends and treasured time with his grandchildren.

Gary served on numerous boards, including Blue Cross of Idaho, Idaho Independent Bank, Rotary Club of Boise, St. Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, University of Idaho Foundation, Idaho Endowment Fund Investment Board, Boys and Girls Club, Fisher's Technology, St. Michael's Cathedral, Boise YMCA, and UI College of Business and Economics.

Gary is survived by Kathleen, his wife of 58 years; their children, Elizabeth "Beth" Mahn and Richard Mahn (Audrey); and six grandchildren, Isaac and Lucas Taylor, Joshua, Abigail, Jacob, and Fredrick Mahn. He is also survived by his brother Eugene Mahn (Carol) and their children: Kurt, Dan, Debi and Philip Mahn, and their family members. He was preceded in death by parents, Vernon E. and Norma L. Mahn, and his in-laws, Dr. Parry W. and Lenore Harrison.

Gary's legacy of compassion and kindness will endure. Gifts may be made to the Idaho Youth Ranch or another cause close to his heart.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 2:00 pm at St. Michael's Episcopal Cathedral, 518 N. 8th Street, Boise, ID 83702, with a reception to follow.