Jim Foster

James “Jim” Clifford Foster passed away at his home with his wife by his side, in Idaho Falls on Friday, September 6, 2024.

Jim was born in Deer Lodge, Montana on December 29, 1944, to Clifford and Birdie Foster. He attended school there through the tenth grade before moving with his family to Pocatello, Idaho, where he graduated from Pocatello High in 1963. He then attended the Idaho State Trade School before entering the commercial printing business in Rupert.

In 1968, he began work at Falls Printing, then later became the sole owner. After saying for years that he did not need a retirement plan since he never planned to retire, he sold the business in 2004, then thoroughly enjoyed his twenty years of retirement.

Jim married Patricia Ullery on July 9, 1966, in Deer Lodge.

During the Vietnam War, Jim served two years in the US Army as part of a cartography unit stationed near Heidelberg, Germany.

While Jim enjoyed skiing and snowmobiling for many years, he found his true passion in boating and fishing. He was the proud owner of many boats and recreational vehicles throughout his life. Most notably, he was also the primary mechanic and maintenance specialist for each of those, as well as numerous autos, trucks, Jeeps, and other toys. Jim was a lifelong member of the Snake River Boat Club.

Jim is survived by his wife of 58 years, Pat, of Idaho Falls; sister, Judy Hogan, and her husband, Thomas, of Gold Creek, Montana; and brother-in-law, John (Jeanette) Ullery, of Boise, ID. While Jim and Pat had no children, he was especially close to his nephews and their families, TJ (Dana), Kevin (Zana), and Will (Evie) Hogan; Jared (Kendal) and Chris (Hongmey) Ullery; and cousin Ben (Rachael) Zietzke.

In his advance planning documents, under “spouse’s full name,” Jim noticed a second line for “other spouse.” He responded, “Only needed one.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Birdie Foster.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Wood Funeral Home (273 North Ridge Avenue). The family will meet with friends from 12 – 12:45 p.m. prior to the service. Internment to immediately follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. Military honors will be performed by the Bonneville County Veterans Team and the Idaho Honor Guard. A reception will then be held in the Parish Hall of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (270 N. Placer Ave.).

In lieu of flowers donations to St.Lukes Episcopal Church are appreciated, 270 N. Placer Ave., Idaho Falls, ID, 83402.