Darrell Wayne Gee

Darrell Wayne Gee, 77, of Elk Bend Idaho left us in the early morning hours of Sunday, July 16th, 2023. He was born to Leonard Oklahoma and Zella Mae (Pierce) Gee in Turlock, California on August 27th of 1945. Leonard and Zella's family grew to eight children in total, four boys and four girls, who surely gave them a run for their money! Darrell loved spending time with his siblings and cousins, exploring (and sometimes causing trouble) in the California countryside. He told many stories of swimming in irrigation ditches, enjoying fresh fruit from the orchards, and racing cars down country roads. Darrell graduated from Modesto High school, and then attended Modesto Junior College. However, life was Darrell's truest teacher, and he was an astute student.
The California sun and freedom shaped Darrell into a thoughtful and adventurous soul who was ready to take on the world, and set out to do so. His belief about life and work was that life was to be lived and work was mostly just a way to fund it. This philosophy led him to many jobs, including Horizon Airlines for more than ten years, and even more adventures. On his travels he was more often than not joined by his best friend since the age of 12, Harry; the two of them hitchhiked across Canada, built homes in the wild, frequented auto and motorcycle rallies, and just generally raised hell for all of their 65 years of their friendship.
When Darrell was 40 years old he was blessed with his first daughter, Kaitlynn, who was followed two and half years later by his beloved daughter, Erin. He dedicated so much of his life to his children. He was their true North, and he reveled in teaching them the wonders of the world. The knowledge he passed on to them will continue to guide them forever. Not a day will go by that they don't hear their father's voice in their head, offering some little quip or piece of advice.
Darrell was an original; he was a 60s hippy, an avid traveler, a writer, a musician, a fisherman, a creator, an artist, a fixer of all things, a devoted friend, a generous soul, and an all around, one of a time, true gem. He loved fiercely and was loved fiercely in return.
Darrell is survived by his children Kaitlynn Gee (Kyle Bourland) of Rock Springs, WY and Erin Gee of Missoula, MT; sisters Norma (Dan) White of Anderson, CA; Doris (John) Blanchard of Chuliota, Florida; Beverley (Dave) Bohannan of Turlock, CA; his brother David Gee of Sonora, CA; sister-in-law and friend Kerrie Gee of Ceres, CA; best friend Harrold Canady (Kate) of Indianola, WA; his precious kitty Percie of Elk Bend, ID; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless much loved friends he made throughout his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Gee and Zella (Pierce) Gee of California; his sister Barbara (Lonnie) Baker of Ceres, CA; his brother Olen (Jeri) Gee of Turlock, CA; his brother Ronnie (Kerrie) Gee of Ceres, CA; and brother-in-law and friend Dewayne Roy (Beverley) of Sonora, CA.
To say that he will be missed is an enormous understatement. He has left us all with broken hearts, but he made his wishes clear that his celebration of life be just that a happy celebration. So, please join us with your lawn chair or blanket on Sunday, July 30th at 12pm in Darrell's yard, 316 S Agate Dr. Salmon, ID 83467, for a celebration of Darrell and all that he has been to all of us. It'll be a good time!
In lieu of flowers please share stories and photos of Darrell on his Facebook page, even if you can't join us. Cards can be mailed to his address. We would love to see and hear your memories.
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