James Dean Gabbard

1952 - 2020

Caldwell - James Dean Gabbard, age 68, of Caldwell, passed away December 14, 2020, at St. Alphonsus Hospital of Boise from complications during heart surgery.

Jim was born on October 16, 1952 in Greeley Colorado to Dr. James and Virginia Dean Gabbard. He attended public school in Pocatello and Caldwell, graduating from Caldwell High School in 1971. From an early age, Jim followed his dream of becoming a professional musician. He acquired his first guitar, "Stella", when he was twelve, and from that point forward Jim knew he had found his life's passion. He performed at every nightclub, gospel show, country western or blues venue in the Pacific Northwest, playing lead guitar, but primarily bass guitar and harmonica. Jim loved performing and joking with his audiences. This quality of joking with total strangers made Jim a stranger to no one.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Valinda Gabbard of Twin Falls, his parents, James and Virginia Gabbard and his beloved paternal grandparent "Grandma" Inez Gabbard, who assisted in raising the Gabbard children. He is survived by his siblings Gini (Tim) Rosandick and Katy (Toby) Green all of Caldwell, David (Sarah) Gabbard of Boise and Ray (Jacquie) Gabbard of England, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will celebrate Jim's life on June 21, 2021 at 11:30 am at Flahiff Funeral Chapel in Caldwell. Friends are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Clare's Food Pantry, where Jim worked as a volunteer once a week, located at 3719 E Cleveland Blvd, Caldwell, Idaho 83605. Condolences can be given at www.flahifffuneralchapel.com