Monte Wilson

1943 - 2026

Monte D. Wilson passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on February 10, 2026. He was born on August 31, 1943, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Wayne Abram Wilson and Vendetta Cook Wilson.

Monte was raised in Rigby, Idaho, on 40 acres of pastureland now known as Cottonwood Estates. He attended Rigby High School, where he participated in football, basketball, and proudly competed in wrestling, placing fourth at the state level. Following high school, Monte served his country in the Army National Guard.

A skilled mechanic and master welder, Monte had the ability to work on virtually any type of equipment. He dedicated 22 years to the Idaho national Laboratory (INL), where he retired as a foreman. His strong work ethic, leadership, and dependability were respected by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

On December 29, 1961, Monte married the love of his life, Lynda Ruth Blanchard. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Idaho Falls Temple in March 1966. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. They were blessed with seven children: Debra (Brian) Thompson of Rexburg, Idaho; Peggy Wilson of Rexburg, Idaho; Tauna (Waid) Stoneberg of Monteview, Idaho; Patrice (Kyle) Nish of Centerville, Utah; Jan Wilson of Los Angeles, California; Wendy (Dave) Graham of Twin Falls, Idaho; and Michael (Laura) Wilson of Boone, North Carolina. He is survived by brothers Ronald, Reed, Steve (Diane) Wilson, sister Cheryl (John) Bennett and 27 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren.

Monte had a deep love for the outdoors. He cherished childhood memories of swimming in the ditch and playing among the cottonwoods. Throughout his life he enjoyed horses, team roping, hunting, fishing, and spending time at Holly Creek, often bringing his family along on his adventures. He especially loved camping and later taking his camper to Island Park, where he created lasting memories razor riding with his children and grandchildren, always with Lynda by his side. In his early adult years, Monte enjoyed playing softball with the Mud Lake Merchants. He and Lynda also loved their daily trips to their favorite restaurant, Arby's, where they were regulars warmly known by name.

A devoted servant, Monte was known for his generosity and willingness to help anyone in need - truly a man who would give the shirt off his back. He was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings, including four bishoprics and as branch president at the Rexburg Care Center. Among his favorite callings were teaching the Sunbeams and working with the youth, who loved him dearly.

Monte will be remembered for his strong faith, kind heart, sense of humor, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the countless memories shared with those who loved him.

Monte was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne Abram Wilson and Vendetta Cook Wilson; brothers Glendon, Lonny, and Val Wilson; and sisters Afton Arehart, LaRae Peterson, and Ina Gardiner.

Funeral service will be held 11:00 am on Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Cresthaven LDS Chapel in Rexburg. Viewing will be held Sunday evening 5:30 - 7:30 pm and again on Monday from 10:00 - 10:45 am at the Cresthaven LDS Chapel. Interment will be in Grant Central Cemetery. Services may be viewed at www.flammfh.com