Karla Calonge

1937 - 2025

Karla Elizabeth Calonge, 88 years old, of Ashton, Idaho, passed away on November 10, 2025.

Karla was born on August 14, 1937, in Pierre, South Dakota to Gale Hill Wilcox and Louise Ashley Wilcox. Karla spent her childhood in several communities across South Dakota, as her father's work with the National Park Service took the family to different locations, including Mount Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park.

While living in Jackson, Wyoming Karla met Ashton's most eligible bachelor, Harold J. Calonge "Junior". After a short courtship they married in Ashton, on November 17, 1957. Karla and Junior built a beautiful life together on the family farm. They made their home in Marysville where they raised two wonderful children, Gale and Barb, who blessed their lives and brought the joys of parenthood.

Karla devoted her time and energy to working alongside Junior on the farm. She was always ready to lend a hand, whether moving irrigation pipe, changing tires, or running tools and gasoline when needed. Karla was his right-hand man.

Following her retirement from farming, Karla was employed at both the Ashton Inn and the Ashton Living Center. She treasured the many friendships she formed during her time there.

Karla cherished her extended family and loved being part of every gathering. Her love for her children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, nieces and nephews was boundless, and many joyful memories were made together on birthdays, Thanksgivings, and Christmases. She will be remembered for her patience, humility, and the gentle strength she brought to every part of her life.

Karla is survived by her children, Gale (Amy) Calonge and Barbara (Forrest) Hall, all of Ashton. Grandchildren, Ricki Mason, Brandi (AJ) Furgason, Nicole Calonge, a sister-in-law, Kay Hansen Kidd of Ashton; a great-granddaughter and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, spouse, and brother-in-law Robert Lynn Hansen.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 17, at the Ashton Community United Methodist Church, 178 South 5th Street. The family will receive friends that morning at the church from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Squirrel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Karla's name to a charity of your choosing.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the Ashton Living Center for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Karla.