Arnold Fessler, 94

Arnold M Fessler, 94, a lifelong resident of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, peacefully passed away Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Boundary Community Hospital.

Dad was born to Michael and Mary (Neumayer) Fessler on April 21, 1930. He joined an older sister, Katherine, on the family farm. He attended school and graduated high school in the class of 1948. From there, he joined the Navy. He was stationed in San Diego, California, and traveled overseas to Japan. After his honorable discharge, Dad returned to Bonners and worked various jobs including delivering milk for the creamery and working for the KV railroad. He was then hired by the County Road & Bridge and worked for them for 35 years until his retirement.

Dad met his love, JoAnn Davis, at his cousin Gene Neumayer's wedding, where they were both in the wedding party. They then were married on April 18, 1953. Dad and Mom resided on the farm and welcome and raised their four children: Gary (Julie), Allen (Jenny), Neal (Anita) and Terri (Chris Bork). 

Dad enjoyed working the farm and raising his Hereford. Even after he sold the farm to his son, he continued to help where he could, including driving the hay truck into his 90s. He always had a bountiful garden that he always shared. Dad attended almost all of the Badger home games, especially football and basketball. He loved going to coffee, making his rounds at different establishments, with his friends. He is leaving behind a legacy, an impact that will never be erased. 

Arnold is preceded in death by his parents, sister, and his beloved Jo. He is survived by his four children, nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and brother-in-law Keith (Karen) Davis.

A recitation of the rosary will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, October 18, at the Saint Anne’s Catholic Church, 6712 El Paso St., Bonners Ferry, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest at the Grandview Cemetery.  The Bonners Ferry Funeral Home is caring for the family.  To leave a message or memory for the family please go to bonnersferryfuneralhome.com.