Larry D. Napier, 67

Larry Dean Napier passed away Sept. 19, 2006 at home. He was born June 19, 1939 to Leo and Elfie Napier in Norfolk, Nebraska. His brother and best friend Lowell was born six years later. On March 23, 1991, he married Ginny Napier.

His childhood was spent in Norfolk. The family moved to California where Larry finished high school and was valedictorian of his class. He enjoyed participating in track during his junior and senior years. In 1961, he graduated with honors from Humboldt State College with a degree in wildlife management.

He then joined the Army and served as a radio operator stationed in Alaska. After his tour of duty, he began his career working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a biologist. He served at several wildlife refuges in Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. In 1978, he became the refuge manager at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. He felt fortunate that he loved his work with wildlife and the conservation of their habitat. After 32 years of service, he retired in 1994.

Larry was well-known in the community as someone who was always willing to help, and worked tirelessly. He is remembered as being loving, friendly, loyal, and enthusiastic. He was a man of integrity and duty, who felt the call of community and church service.

An avid sportsman, Larry enjoyed duck and deer hunting, and fishing. He was very active in the community, and a supporting member of Kiwanis and Ducks Unlimited. He assisted with the spelling bee for the past 20 years, and was active in the Methodist Church. He enjoyed gardening, and he continued his responsibility to wildlife observation and conservation. He loved teaching his grandchildren to fish, play ball and games, and he taught them to respect and love nature.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother Lowell.

Larry is survived by his loving wife Ginny, daughter Desiree Campbell, son-in-law Gavin Campbell, grandchildren Alaistair and Tristan Campbell, son Robert McCollough, daughter-in-law Naomi McCollough, grandchildren Brett and Natalie McCollough, and family in Nebraska. Many friends were like family to him.

Suggested memorials may be made to Ducks Unlimited or Nature Conservancy: Rt. 4 Box 612 A, Bonners Ferry, ID 83805.

A memorial service will be held at Bonners Ferry United Methodist Church on Thursday, October 5, 2006, at 11 a.m., with reception following at the First Baptist Church to celebrate Larry's life.