Reah Mildred Tarkalson

In loving memory of Reah Mildred Jolley Tarkalson, age 73, who progressed from this life to the next on November 16, 2023, in Salt Lake City, Utah, surrounded by those she cherished most in this life, her family. Her laugh, her smile, and her countenance will forever be etched into the hearts of all who knew her. Reah, a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, will be greatly missed.
Reah was born April 21, 1950, to parents, Dale and Mildred Jolley. She was the third of five children, consisting of one brother, Von Jolley and three sisters, Sharyn Ward, Annette Knight, and Barbara Stokes. She spent her first years in the Firth Idaho area until her family relocated to Salmon, Idaho, where she spent the majority of her life. After graduation from Salmon High School, Reah attended Ensign/LDS Business College in Salt Lake City, Utah, earning her certificate in bookkeeping. Upon completion, she returned to Salmon to help with the family ranch. Soon after she married her High School sweetheart, David James Tarkalson (Jim) on November 28, 1969. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls, Idaho, Temple for time and all eternity. Together, Reah and Jim raised 5 children, three sons, David, Eric, and Keith; and two daughters, Becky and Megan, who love her dearly and are very proud to call her, mom.
She was known for her integrity, dedication, loyalty, kind heart, beautiful smile, infectious personality and unforgettable laugh. She exercised hard work, showed grit and determination, and accepted all the
challenges life presented to her, with positivity and a smile. This example will be cherished by her family and future generations.
Reah embodied love, kindness, and generosity. She showed unwavering acceptance to everyone. Reah was adored by all who knew her. Reah deeply loved and valued her family and the time they spent together. She was especially beloved by her grandchildren, who lovingly called her Nana. They will never forget the fun messes made, the games played, the sweets given, and the gift of time and love she gave to them.
Reah is preceded in death by her parents, Dale and Mildred Jolley. She is survived by her husband, David James Tarkalson, children; David Tarkalson (Marilyn), Eric Tarkalson (Ashley), Keith Tarkalson (Pamela), Becky Hone (Heath), Megan Welch (Michael); 28 beloved grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 4 siblings.
Funeral services will be held at 12 P.M. Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at the Salmon, ID Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building (Hwy 28). The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:00 till 7:30 P.M. at Jones and Casey Funeral Home, 501 Lena Street, in Salmon, and Tuesday from 10:30 till 11:30 A.M. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints building (Hwy 28). Burial will follow the service in the Salmon, Idaho Cemetery.