Allonna Chapple

Our “Little Sweetheart,” Allonna Rowane Chapple, 70, surrounded by her family, returned to her heavenly home on May 9, 2015, after nearly a decade-long fight with Multiple Myeloma. Her will to live and desire to remain here with those she loved could no longer overcome her pain. Allonna was born July 17, 1944, in Rigby, Idaho, to Lester M. Gneiting and Donna Wilson Gneiting. She grew up in Menan, Idaho. She attended the old rock school house in Menan, Midway Jr. High and Rigby High School. Allonna loved school, and participated in many activities including cheerleading, marbles and baseball, describing herself as a bit of a tomboy. She worked hard on the family farm. Around the age of 13 she met a quiet, blonde, blue-eyed boy named Larry Chapple. She said he was kind, and was always there when she needed him. On November 25, 1960, Larry and Allonna were married. They spent nearly 35 years on a farm in Milo, Idaho. Together they enjoyed camping, fishing, horse racing and spending time at the family cabin in Island Park. Around 2005, they relocated to Idaho Falls to a beautiful horse ranch and home Larry built for her. As Allonna’s cancer became more aggressive, Larry remained vigilant by her side, making sure she had everything she needed. They would have celebrated their 55th anniversary this year. Allonna and Larry have four children; three girls, Evy Jo, Rone, and Kathy; and one son, Larry Jake. Allonna was fiercely loyal and cherished her family above all else. She was especially proud of her kids and grandkids. She was a “fun” mom and grandma and could be found floating the canal, riding a go cart, shouting loudly for Stockton/Malone at a Jazz game, or racing you to her favorite fishing hole. She loved traveling and often recalled her fun trips with her family. She had an amazing laugh. Allonna was proud of her German work ethic. She worked hard and never quit. Her home and gardens were always beautiful as a result. She loved to irrigate the farm. She worked at various jobs over the years but her passion for antiques led her to open her own shop, “Allonna’s Fine Things.” She was an incredible decorator and had an eye for the unique and beautiful. She loved to dance and had an amazing singing voice. She was very young at heart and loved life. Throughout years of constant treatments, Allonna never lost her sense of humor and wit. She loved her daily drive for a McD’s coke, and spending time talking with her children. When asked how she was doing, she would say, “I’m fine.” She was courageous and was a fighter. Though the cancer took much from her, it brought her family even closer as they served her and showed her unconditional love. Amidst our tears, we rejoice that she is free to run and dance once again. Allonna was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Allonna is survived by her husband, Larry; her children, Evy Jo (Pete) Gilstrap of Rigby, Rone (James) Treasure of Rigby; Kathy (Troy) Tawzer of Hillsboro, OR; Jake (Kristy) Chapple of Boise; 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; sisters, Nita (Ron) Hix, Judie Boltz, Deanna (Chupe) Brizzee; brothers, Frank Gneiting and Nolan (Dawn) Gneiting. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Otto, Montie, Dale and Billy; granddaughter, Kaylee Tawzer; and niece, Debra Jo Johnson. Special thanks to Dr. Dickson, Jed, Ann, Kaleigh, and all the staff at Teton Cancer Institute for many years of taking care of “Miss Allonna.” Funeral Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2015, at the Iona LDS 8th Ward, 4459 John Adams Parkway in Ammon, with Bishop Steve Murphy officiating. The family will visit with friends Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Grant-Central Cemetery.

Funeral Services will be held

11 a.m. ,Friday, May 15, 2015 Iona LDS 8th Ward 4459 John Adams Parkway Ammon, ID, Bonneville 83406 Notes: The family will visit with friends on Thursday from 6:30-8 p.m. at Wood East Side (963 S. Ammon) and Friday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Grant-Central Cemetery.