Gale W. Conner, who was a born-again, spirit-filled Christian, was welcomed into Heaven January 2, 2013. We know that Jesus was there to welcome him with the words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant!” Gale had struggled with cancer this past year but is surely rejoicing with a healed, new body that will last him through eternity! For a believer in Jesus Christ, there really is no death, but a transition from a temporary life here on earth to an eternal life with the Lord. Those of us left behind will miss him and greatly, because he truly was an awesome husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He would be telling us to continue fighting the good fight of faith, being salt and light to a world in need. He was 80 years old and married 61 years to Carol, the love of his life.
Gale was born in Wilmington, CA in 1932, to Bill and Orpha Conner and big sister Dorothy (Miracle). Being born during the Depression, his family moved back and forth between California and Idaho, wherever there was work, but they finally settled in Castleford, Idaho when he was 13. His father and uncle, Jim Miracle, built the C&M Grocery Store in town. Gale loved his school years, loved Mr. Bowers and his teachers, and was active in sports, drama, music, Boy Scouts, Eagle Scouts, school leadership, and community service. He loved the opportunities a small school and community afforded him.
After graduation in 1950, he attended Fullerton Community College in CA with Don Kramer and returned home in 1951 to marry his high school sweetheart Carol Jean Blick. They returned to Fullerton to continue college, but in 1953 he was drafted into the army and served as a troop trainer at Fort Ord Army Base in Monterey, CA. When the Korean War ended, he and Carol returned to Castleford, knowing it would be a wonderful place to raise a family! They built a home southwest of town and raised three daughters, Kathleen (Graumann), Susan (Pforsich), and Tamara (Werenka). Gale became a farmer, tutored by his father-in-law, John Blick, but soon added an angus cattle ranch, wanting to be a “cowboy” like John Wayne! He also partnered with Gary Blick in a potato trucking business, trucking potatoes to the processing plant in Twin Falls for many years.
He was an active member of the Castleford Methodist Church and loved involvement in community activies. He held many offices on various boards through the years, crediting his leadership abilities to the Boy and Eagle Scout programs. He was blessed with a beautiful singing voice and used his gift at weddings, funerals, pageants, special community affairs, and the musicals, “Oklahoma”, and “Brigadoon” with the Twin Falls Dilettants. He taught his daughters to harmonize and often included them in his music. Music was always a vital part of the Conner household! They enjoyed their family cabin in Ketchum, ID when they could get away.
In 1975, after a bump in the road, Gale and Carol surrendered their lives to the Lord. They would say that their “head knowledge” became “heart knowledge” and their Christianity transitioned from being a “religion” to a “relationship” with the risen Savior! The Lord moved them to Seattle, Washington area where they have been for the last 37 years. Gale became a land developer and developed a subdivision, built several commercial buildings and homes, and later moved into property management. Only a few years ago did he mentor and turn his business over to his grandson, Gabriel. They also spent 18 years in marriage ministry – writing, teaching, and testifying of the power of God to heal and restore. They also loved to travel, their favorite trip being to Rome, the Greek islands, Israel, and the cities of Paul’s 3rd missionary journey.
Gale has temporarily left behind his wife Carol, who will faithfully continue serving the Lord, three daughters and spouses, 11 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, many extended family members, and friends galore! Gale always valued family and friends and left behind a great legacy of generosity, servanthood, integrity, strong work ethic, honoring elders, and thankfulness. As a veteran, he loved his country and always shook the hand of a soldier he would meet, thanking them for their sacrifice and service. If Gale could have one more conversation with all of you, he would challenge you with surrendering your life to Jesus, making Him Lord of your life. He would tell you there is no decision more important than that in this life. A memorial service will be held in the months ahead at the Methodist Church fellowship hall in Castleford, Idaho. Day and time will be in the local paper. We welcome you to share in the celebration of life well lived.
Should any want to send a memorial gift, we would recommend the “Men’s Club” of Castleford (They do an abundance of special things for the community), or gift addressed to the Quick Response Unit of Castleford. Castleford, ID 83321.
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