Walter Estes, 88

Walter Ernest Estes was born March 15, 1935, to Marvin and Leah (Cleary) Estes in Taskee, Mo. He spent his early years growing up in Piedmont, Mo. Near age 12, the family moved to Spokane, finishing his school there. In 1953, He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served during the Korean War. He attained the rank of Corporal and was honorably discharged in 1955. Following the service, he was reunited with the sweetheart from his youth, Florence Lambert. 

The couple was married in 1959 and began their family. Their union was blessed with five children, Howard, John, David, Aaron and Mike and 60 years of marriage together. The couple raised their family in the Rathdrum and Spirit Lake communities. They began foster care in 1966-2017, fostering 15+ children over the years. Walter worked as a machinist and manufacturer of Aluminum Millwork. A disability caused him to retire in 1975, and he began volunteer work as an EMT for Spirit Lake Ambulance and worked at Stoneridge Golf Course. Florence died in 2018, and Walter continued to live in his home. He recently said goodbye to his son, David Estes, “Ranger Dave,” with his death in 2024. Following a decline in health, Walter died peacefully March 28, 2024, at his home in Spirit Lake at the age of 88 years.

Walter was truly a family man, from raising his own children to opening his home to children who needed stability through foster care. He taught his children survival skills, fishing, hunting and shelter building. All of which have been passed down to the next generations. He was legendary in the outdoors, setting fishing records and prospecting gold, but remained humble, never bragging and always thankful for his provision. Walter was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was active in the church, having served as a bishop.  

Walter is lovingly remembered by his children, Howard (and Pam) Estes, John Estes, Aaron Estes and Mike (and Tammy) Barrett; grandchildren James Estes, Bryan Estes, Kayla Wilhelmi and Leah Estes; several great-grandchildren; sisters Norma Miller and Karen Naylor; nieces, nephews, family and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence; son David Estes “Ranger Dave”; parents Marvin and Leah; and siblings Claire, Pete, Narice and David.  

Blessed be his memory.

The funeral service will be Thursday, April 11, at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 15151 N. Meyer Road, Rathdrum, ID 83858. Visitation is one hour prior to the service, all at church. Interment will follow with honors at Pinegrove Cemetery in Rathdrum, Idaho.  

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Homes. The online registry and condolences can be found at https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/lDtdC5ykwBhGPDuzHvj6?domain=yatesfuneralhomes.com.