James Wade Garner

James Wade Garner, 54, of Idaho Falls, passed away Feb. 17, 2010, at his home following a long term illness. He was a beloved father, son, brother and friend and was a fighter to the end. He was cared for by his daughter, Jana.

He was born Aug. 13, 1955, in Idaho Falls, to Ronald Leo "Hank" Garner and Norma Jean Schwartz Garner. He attended schools in Roberts and Shelley, graduating from Shelley High School. As a young man, he was very attentive to his sisters, showing great patience in the many things he taught them. He was still trying to teach his brothers how to fish.

He married Lisa Marie Meyer, and they divorced. He was a farmer and since 1973, farmed with Howard Taylor & Sons, eventually becoming foreman and worked there until his early retirement.

James was extremely proud of his girls and their many successes and was a favorite uncle to his nieces and nephews. He loved the many camping trips taken with his family and enjoyed fishing and hunting. He had many friends and enjoyed their regular coffee dates, "Happy Hour" and playing cards, especially poker, with them. He received special recognition as the 2008 Texas Hold'em Poker Bowl Champion.

James had a fun and witty sense of humor, was always the first to lend a hand, and was generous to a fault. He kept his lawn perfectly manicured and was the family project supervisor and instigator.

Survivors include his daughter, Jana Garner of Pocatello; mother, Norma Garner of Idaho Falls; siblings, Denny (Judy) Garner, Dale (Kathy) Garner, Eddie Garner, Dex Covert and Ronda (Bart) Bateson, all of Idaho Falls, Peggy (Alan) Mondada of Boise, Lori (Dan) Seargeant of West Covina, Calif., and Judy (Dave) Truempler of Pocatello; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hank Garner; his daughter, Jennifer Garner; and his grandparents, Albert and Melva Schwartz and Leo and Ethel Garner.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Hospice of Eastern Idaho for their kind and loving care of James.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, at Fielding Memorial Park, 4602 S. Yellowstone in Idaho Falls. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Dr. Jennifer Garner Memorial Endowment through Idaho State University at ISU College of Pharmacy, 921 S. Eighth Ave. Stop 8288, Pocatello, ID 83209-8288 or to Hospice of Eastern Idaho, 1810 Moran, Idaho Falls, ID 83401. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.woodfuneralhome.com.