Theodore 'Ted' Willhite, 81

Nov. 9, 1934 — Jan. 20, 2016

Theodore “Ted” Willhite died on Jan. 20, 2016, after a four-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Ted was born in Fraser, Colo., on Nov. 9, 1934, to William and Hattie Willhite. He was the youngest of 10 children; Arthur, Alvin, Virgil, Bud, James, Don, Estelle, Alma and Irene.

His family was hardworking and logged the high mountains of Colorado during his younger years. Ted joined the U.S. Air Force in 1954 and retired after a 20-year career in 1974, but not before he met the love of his life, Darlene, in 1956. They married that same year and together had four children, Kirk (Keri/Dearla) Willhite, Sandy (Lonnie) Jennings, James (Leah) Willhite and TJ (Tolli) Willhite. After retiring from his position as a Military Policeman, Ted and Darlene moved their family to Thompson Falls, Mont., where he embarked on another career as a millwright.

Ted loved to help people and was an active member of the Sanders County Search and Rescue and both the City and County Fire Departments. He also volunteered for the Reserve Deputy Program in Thompson Falls. Ted could always be trusted to be wherever he was needed to help his community.

Ted and Darlene built their dream home along the Clark Fork River in Thompson Falls. He enjoyed boating on the river, fishing and hunting the beautiful mountains of Montana with his sons and grandson, Shane. In 2005, they moved to Hayden, Idaho, to be near their youngest son, TJ, and his family. He enjoyed attending his grandson’s games, birthday parties and school events. Grandpa’s famous barbecue chicken was always a request at family dinners. Many things gave Ted joy in his life. He took great pride in his military service and his work as a volunteer in Thompson Falls. He adored his wife, Darlene, beyond measure and his happiest moments were those spent with family and friends.

Ted is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 59 years, Darlene; his brother, Don; four children; Kirk, Sandy, Jim and TJ; nine grandchildren: Shane, Trista, Jack, Nate, Matt, Daisian, Rhianna, Samantha and Kacy; seven great-grandchildren: Emma, Alaina, Riley, Emma, Gavin, Amari, and one on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

A family celebration to honor Ted’s life will take place at another date and time. Darlene and the family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Bristol Heights and Hospice of North Idaho who lovingly cared for Ted and showed him all the respect he deserved until his last moments. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ted’s name to Hospice of North Idaho, 9493 N. Government Way, Hayden ID 83835. Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit Ted’s online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.