Elbert Stebbins, 85

Elbert (AL) E. Stebbins Sr., 85, of Hayden, Idaho, died Jan. 13, 2024, at the Schneidmiller House with his son, Will, by his side.

Al was born to Willard C. Stebbins and Etta Mae Scott on Feb. 20, 1938, in St. Helens, Ore., where he spent most of his younger years.

In 1955, he joined the Air Force in Michigan, where he was an aircraft mechanic until 1959.

While in Michigan, he met his first wife, Harriet Schaffner, and they were married in 1958. They had five children: Terri, Tamera, Elbert, Gabriel (Buddy) and Willard. Al and Harriett divorced in 1974.

Al met his second wife, Barbara Lewis, in St. Helens, Ore., and they were married in 1977.

Al retired from American Steel in 1997 and moved to Hayden, Idaho.

Al had a green thumb and was known for his tomatoes, cucumbers and many plants. He also liked to strum on his guitars and picked a little on the banjo.

Al is survived by his children, Terri (Wayne) Nelson of Groveland, Fla.; Tammy (Carl) Garrett of Hermiston, Ore.; Elbert Stebbins Jr. of Idaho; Buddy (Jackie) Stebbins of Missoula, Mont., Will (Shelly VanDeHey) Stebbins of Missoula, Mont.; numerous grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins and his very close friends, Wayne and Linda Stocker, whom we will be forever grateful for taking care of Al.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, in 2011; parents Willard and Etta Mae; brothers Don, Gil, and Clement; and sisters Marlene, Katy, and Sherrie.

A private graveside burial was held Jan. 16, 2024, at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Gardens 7315 N. Government Way, Coeur d’Alene Idaho. Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home.