Eldon Hansen Gough

Eldon Hansen Gough, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 2:42 PM MST. He was born on July 1, 1944, in Wendell, Idaho and lived a life built on hard work and perseverance, carried forward by a generous and kind spirit, and centered on the humility and unwavering love that made him so cherished.

Eldon married the love of his life, Joanne, on March 5, 1966, beginning a partnership that lasted more than 55 years. Together, they built a family grounded in warmth, loyalty, and laughter. He is survived by his children, Brian Gough and Kimra Jansen, and his grandchildren, Tyler, Trace, Breanna, Morgen, and Austin, who each carry forward pieces of his humor, grit, and magnanimous spirit.

Born into a large family, Eldon was the second youngest of six children: Phyllis, Jack, Gerry, Sharon, and Lavar. Growing up on a farm meant working hard from a young age, and those early responsibilities shaped him into the strong, dependable, and hardworking man everyone knew and loved. Eldon loved life outdoors. He was never happier than when he was in a boat with a fishing pole in one hand and a story ready to share in the other. He especially cherished salmon fishing on the Siletz River in Oregon, spending countless days at the River House making memories with his grandchildren, often with a celebratory cigar or two. One particularly successful season even rekindled his old smoking habit, a story the family will continue to laugh about for years. A true outdoorsman, he didn't just hunt; he cherished the annual ritual of elk season in Island Park, Idaho, with his closest friends. That rugged, pine-scented country was their sanctuary, and he never missed a year until their knees and backs finally got too old for the rugged terrain. Eldon also enjoyed hunting rock chucks and other game, attending rodeos, watching bridge jumpers, and driving the back roads just to see what he could find.

Beyond the outdoors, Eldon was a skilled craftsman and woodworker, and loved creating beautiful pieces, such as cutting boards, furniture, and other keepsakes, that reflected his patience and talent. He loved tending to his vegetable garden, playing cards like pinochle and gin rummy, and relaxing in his recliner watching Fox News. He enjoyed spirited conversations and friendly debates about politics and the state of the world with anyone who joined him on the back patio.

His hobbies, both quiet and lively, showcased the many sides of a man who took joy in simple moments and honest work. Eldon’s calm, steady presence was the perfect complement to Joanne’s vivacious spirit, and together they created a home where everyone felt welcome. He carried a genuine sweetness into every interaction, whether with friends, neighbors, waitstaff, store clerks or strangers he met along the way. His kindness was effortless and sincere.

Eldon’s legacy is one of love, quick humor, and steadfast quiet strength. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his loved ones, but his example will continue to guide them. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The family is currently making arrangements for a celebration of life to honor Eldon's life. All details regarding the date and location will be finalized and announced in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to a local animal shelter, in honor of Eldon's lifelong love for animals.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Eldon’s memorial webpage at www.farnswsorthmortuary.com.