Casey Alex Cruickshank

Casey came into the world in a hurry, born at home, September 4, 1991. We should have known then that he would fill our lives with adventure, and that everything he did would be on his own terms with no regrets.

He attended Payette schools grades K-12, graduating with the Class of 2010…barely. He earned an Associate’s Degree from TVCC, and was on track to complete his Bachelor’s Degree from Oregon State 2017.

Casey had many talents and interests. He appreciated all types of music from rap to bagpipes, and he knew the words to every song. He loved to drive fast – way too fast. He was an accomplished snow skier and spent many happy days in deep powder at Brundage Mountain. He was also a beautiful water skier and enjoyed family boating adventures. He enjoyed golfing, especially the 19th hole.

He loved working on the farm. He was an invaluable asset to his dad and brother, and they shared a special bond, as only those who live and work together can. Although he worked tirelessly, without complaint, that was not always the case. We remember Casey throwing himself down on the ground between onion rows, flailing his arms and legs, making “onion angels” screaming, “I HATE this job!” He detested working with sheep, and when there was work to be done, he would disappear early on, only to re-appear just as the job was finished.

Casey had so many wonderful qualities that it seems unfair to sum up the entirety of his life with a few inadequate words. He was the most loyal person, supporting family and friends regardless of circumstance or risk. He was funny. He was witty. He had a tremendous sense of humor. He was dedicated, diligent, persistent, and resourceful. He was non-judgmental, and had friends from all walks of life. He was a loving son, brother, and quite possibly the best tio ever.

Just as Casey arrived early, he departed much too early, leaving this life August 27. He was preceded in death by loving grandparents, Harley and Marie Sullivan. He is survived by parents Bruce and Kelly, siblings Drew and Kelsey, beloved nephew Reilly, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

We would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the CCU team at St. Al’s for the exceptional care provided. Thanks also to Community Tissue Services and Pacific Northwest Transplant Bank for helping us to honor Casey’s wish of organ donation. It was a difficult process made easier by the high degree of professionalism displayed by all.

Donations may be made to a scholarship fund to be set up in Casey’s name, the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline, your local Public Broadcasting Service affiliate, or a charity of your choice, c/o Shaffer-Jensen Memory Chapel, P.O. Box 730, Payette, Idaho 83661.

A celebration of Casey’s life is planned for Saturday, September 10, 5:00 pm, at Touch of Oak, 1289 SE 2nd Street, Ontario. In keeping with Casey’s wishes, there will be no formality, little organization, and pizza and beverages will be served. Please come and share your favorite memory of Casey with us, and celebrate his short, but well-lived life.

Cremation is under the direction of Shaffer-Jensen Memory Chapel. Condolences may be made to Casey’s family at www.shaffer-jensenchapel.com.