Bradley Iverson, 78

Our special Valentine, Bradley Alton Iverson “Brad”, passed away with his family by his side in Meridian on Feb. 14, 2023, which was also his birthday. He was born in Aberdeen, S.D., on Feb. 14, 1945, to Clifford and Thelma Iverson. The family moved from South Dakota to Coeur d’Alene, where his father started The Peoples Auction House. Brad learned from a young age the art of auctioneering while working for his father and attending Coeur d’Alene High School.

In 1963, at the age of 17, Brad joined the Army serving tours in both France and Germany. After his service, he returned to Coeur d’Alene to marry his high school sweetheart, Delores “Dee” Rudolph on Aug. 27, 1966. From there he worked at the Potlach Mill, and then became the “Soft Drink King” becoming the sales manager for both 7-Up and the Pepsi Bottling Company. While working there they welcomed their only child Monte.

They forged a life together in Coeur d’Alene and purchased a 40-acre property raising horses, pigs, and cattle. They grew over 1500 pumpkins each year which branded the name the “Pumpkin Patch.” They then converted the Pumpkin Patch into an event facility and a driving range. Brad became known as “The Big Pumpkin” to many who knew him. He hosted many parties, weddings, and company events. His largest function was the Idaho Forest Industry’s company picnic which had over 1200 people. He and his wife moved to Meridian, Idaho in 2021 to be closer to family.

Brad was an avid golfer and participated in many local golf tournaments throughout the Northwest. He also enjoyed shooting skeet and fishing steelhead with his buddy Leon which included telling more jokes and “drinking refreshments” than actual fishing. His large booming voice filled the room and his blue eyes danced while he spun jokes and stories to entertain others. He always said his job was to make everyone laugh and that is exactly what he did.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Clifford and Thelma, and brothers Martin and Marlan Iverson. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Dee, son Monte and daughter in-law Christina Iverson, grandchildren Chris McIntire, Gavin and Kyle Iverson, Sarah Galbraith, and great-grandson Donovan, sister Janet Hannick and brother Jack Iverson and Charlie Iverson. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation for Legacy Corps, The Cottages of Lochsa Falls and Keystone Hospice for their care and compassion over the past year. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that donations be made to Legacy Corps at AgingStrong.org.