Junior Sharp

HUGH SHARP IDAHO FALLS, ID -- Hugh Sharp, 85, of Idaho Falls, passed away June 12, 2009, after experiencing declining health and complications from a fall. He was a resident of Idaho Falls Life Care Center at the time of his passing. He was born May 16, 1924, in a two room log house on the outskirts of Rexburg, Idaho. His father was Hugh Sharp and his Mother, Amelia Cecelia Barber Sharp. He attended school at Madison High School, then enrolled in a trade school in Airplane Engine mechanics at Utah State University. Half way through the course he was drafted into the Army at the age of 18. He was sent to the 146th Engineer Combat Battalion in Texas. He served five campaigns during World War II, all in Europe, and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He returned to Idaho in 1945. He worked at Browning’s Garage before returning to Utah State University in 1948, where he met Ruby Johnson. Hugh and Ruby were married on February 2, 1949, in Idaho Falls. Their marriage was solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on February 2, 1965. He worked for Oscar Johnson, Ruby's father, on the farm and ranch for five years. He did custom farming in Rupert, and worked at Phillips Petroleum in Idaho Falls. In 1968 he moved to Baker, Idaho, ten miles from Salmon, and ranched for three years. He was a long time farmer and rancher. The Corps of Engineers took the ranch on Willow Creek for the Ririe Dam and Reservoir in 1968. The ranch is now Blacktail Park. He farmed north of Iona for 40 years, during which time he played an important role in the development of an advanced irrigation system known as Cablegation. In 1987 Hugh had his first heart attack. In 1991, he rented the farm to a wonderful neighbor, Dale Rockwood. In 1999, he sold the farm and ranch in Iona and he and his sweetheart, Ruby, purchased a townhouse in Idaho Falls, where they resided together until October of last year. Hugh and Ruby celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on February 2, 2009. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as a Home Teacher and High Priest Group Leader. Hugh and Ruby served a mission in the Salt Lake Family History Center where Hugh learned how to repair books. Following the mission, he served at the Idaho Falls Family History Center for seven years. He was a member of the Lion's Club, Cattlemen's Association, and the Elks Club. He enjoyed being a model railroader for 25 years and making lapidary jewelry. Survivors include: Wife: Ruby Sharp Daughter: Marsha Marie (Joe) Probert, Iona, ID Son: Bruce J. (Linda) Sharp, Shelley, ID Daughter: Becky Jo (Rusty) Gerdes, Idaho Falls, ID Sister: Mary Cordon, TX 12 Grandchildren & 14 Great Grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his firstborn daughter, Susan; sister, Emma Lou Koegler; and two half-brothers, Max Anderson and Vern Anderson. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at Wood Funeral Home, 273 N. Ridge Ave., with Bishop Randy Hurley of the Ammon 6th Ward officiating. The family will visit with friends on Monday evening from 6 to 7 p.m. and Tuesday 10 - 10:45 a.m., both visitations at Wood's. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery. Military Rites will be performed by the Bonneville County Veterans Team and the Idaho Honor Guard. ---------------------------------------------------- Condolences received online: Luke and Carla Yates Dear Dixie, We were so very sorry to hear about Kent's passing. It must be so hard for you. We didn't know him very well, but we knew that you were extremely happy for the years that you were married to him. Keep those memories in your heart and maybe that will help you cope with your loss. And remember that we love you. Love, Uncle Luke and Aunt Carla Loretta Jenson Marsha, I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. I pray you will be comforted in knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of friends. Loretta Barbara Hardy Dear Becky Gerdes and Family, I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad, I want to express my Love to you and your Family at this time, It is hard to lose a parent, but we know that one day we will be able to be with them again. You are a Special family, and may you find comfort in knowing that your friends care about you at this time. Love George and Barbara Hardy Laura Wells sabina2k@yahoo.com Dear Ruby & Family, So sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts are with you. Ruby, I think of you so often. So sorry I can't come tonight to say hello, but I will be thinking of you all. Laura Kirk Clark grandpakirky@gmail.com To: Bruce and Family Bruce, I just want you and your family to know how sorry I am to hear of your dad's passing. I know how difficult it is to say good-bye to a parent. I lost my mom back in 2000. It's been sometime since you and I stood side by side one another as a Bonneville Bee football team-mates. Bruce, during this very difficult time remember you have many friends and family who care about you and are here to provide support. God Bless you and your family. Kirk Connie Carlson conn@fallsinsurance.com I have known Hugh and Ruby Sharp for many years, as they have been customers of the Falls Insurance Center for as long as I have worked there, which is 42 years. Both of them have always been so loyal and honest with their dealings with our office. My heart goes out to Ruby and her children for their loss. Connie Carlson The Falls Insurance Center, Inc. Colleen Humphries enegueh@hotmail.com I would like to extend my condolences to the family. I have many fond memories of Junior, Emma Lou and Mary. Want to wish a good day to the family and know he was a great guy. Sincerely, Colleen Rogers Humphries Becky Haggard Blair Dear Ruby and Family, I'm so sorry to hear about Hugh. Mom and Dad loved your family so very much. You have our thoughts and prayers. Love, Becky