Robert James MacKenzie, 84

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Robert "Bob" MacKenzie. Bob, beloved husband, dad, grandpa, uncle and friend, passed peacefully in his sleep Dec. 9, 2024, at the Schneidmiller House of Hospice of North Idaho. He was born in Bakersfield, Calif., on Jan. 5, 1940, to John W. and Vivian E. (Auld) MacKenzie. He spent most of his early years in California and Colorado, and enlisted in the U.S. Army just out of high school. His active and reserve services sparked a lifelong interest in artillery and a talent for cooking.

Bob arrived in Coeur d'Alene in 1966 and soon met the love of his life, Sally Spain. They married Aug. 26, 1967, and had recently celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary.

Bob's love of cooking took him to numerous local restaurants. His dream of owning his own business was realized with the Shady Rest Restaurant, where he especially enjoyed preparing his "famous" prime rib dinners. He could also be found fishing on the adjoining docks with his young son, Matthew, who delighted in bringing his "catches" into the dining area to show the customers. The parking lot also became a stage for the occasional fireworks extravaganzas July 3 (or whenever). His love and collection of small cannons were also often on display, earning him his nickname of "Bob Boom" by his nephews.

When time allowed, Bob loved driving, and they traveled mostly in the western states. But their favorite destination was always the Oregon Coast, where their love of the ocean found them beachcombing, exploring and enjoying the beautiful sunsets. Being proud of his Scottish ancestry, he was delighted when Sally arranged a Scotland, Ireland and England tour for their 25th anniversary and also for Matthew's graduation.

Closer to home, Bob enjoyed old cars and loved his 1949 red Ford pickup, which he maintained for over 50 years, and which allowed everyone to know when he was coming. He also enjoyed family dinners, carving his prime rib, making balloon animals, teasing the kids, growing giant sunflowers, the Denver Broncos, watching the Zags and poker with the guys. He especially adored his grandson, Benjamin, and his grand-dog, Max. Those who loved him will remember Bob as easy-going, kind, generous, sometimes mischievous and one of a kind.

Bob is survived by his wife, Sally, son Matthew (Jeanette) MacKenzie, grandson Benjamin, niece Shannon Hanson-Alviar (Greg Alviar), nephew Ron (Jodi) Strobel, grandniece Hailey Mae and grandnephews Calvin, Ivan and Avery. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held later in the spring in Coeur d'Alene. A private graveside ceremony was held at Forest Cemetery in Coeur d'Alene.

Donations in Bob's memory may be made to Companions Animal Center in Hayden, Idaho, Hospice of North Idaho Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d'Alene or a charity of your choosing.

Memories of Bob and messages of condolence may be shared at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.

So goodbye for now, my sweet guy,

I'll see you on the other side.

I know you'll be waiting in the pickup for me, As you always have.

With my love, Sally.