Constance Mincher

1938 - 2025

Constance Martha "Connie" Mincher (née Petersen), age 87, passed away on April 5, 2025, in Boise, Idaho, with family by her side.

Born on February 16, 1938, in Lake Benton, Minnesota, Connie grew up on a farm surrounded by the values of hard work and family. After graduating from high school in 1956, she moved to Rapid City, South Dakota where she met her true love, Jay Bruce Mincher. They were married on January 26, 1957, beginning a partnership that would span 57 years until Jay's passing.

Shortly after their marriage, Connie and Jay relocated to Halfmoon, New York. There they raised their family and built a life rooted in community and service. Connie worked as a school bus driver for the Shenendehowa School District for 22 years before retiring in 1994. She found deep joy in her work and cherished the children she transported each day.

In 1994, Connie and Jay moved to Idaho to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Family was at the heart of everything Connie did. She especially treasured time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose presence brought her immense happiness.

A devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church in Idaho Falls, Connie gave generously of her time and talents. She served faithfully on the church's Braille committee, contributing to meaningful outreach efforts that reflected her compassionate spirit.

Connie is lovingly remembered by her son Bruce Mincher of Idaho Falls; her daughter Barb (Randy) Ernst of Boise; her brother Virgil (Shonnye) Petersen of Woodbury, Minnesota; Karen Nielsen of Lake Benton, Minnesota; Marie (Don) Nadeau of Greenwich, New York; Harlan Petersen of Clarksville, Tennessee; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jay Bruce Mincher; her parents Olaf Petersen and Mildred (Koster) Petersen; and siblings Marlian "Pete" Petersen, Rita Carter, and Mark Petersen.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at St. John's Lutheran Church located at 290 7th St., Idaho Falls, Idaho 83404.

Connie will be remembered for her generous heart and unwavering support for those around her. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.