John Ernest Hill, 91

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, John Ernest Hill, 91, of Smelterville, Idaho, peacefully passed away at his home on June 24, 2019. John was born on October 7, 1927; the son of Jacob and Katherine (Deetz) Hill.

After graduating from high school, John quickly enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served during the end of WWII as well as the Korean War. Following his time in the military, John served 8 years as a Detective Sergeant for the Ellensburg Police department. John then worked as a Lead Hanger for a custom wall coverings business for 47 years, to which he was also a union member, up until the time of his retirement in 1996.

John married his beloved wife, Kathryn Howey on October 28, 2002. They spent 17 wonderful years together.

John was a special man with a gracious heart. Most of his hobbies and past times were spent helping others. One could often find John working on plumbing, carpentry projects, or electrical work for his neighbors or people who couldn’t afford such services. John was a selfless person with many skills and a vast knowledge of just about anything. He also enjoyed watching animals in their habitat.

John is survived by his children, Don (Marina) Hill of Ellensburg, Washington, Connie Ferris of Florida, Cathy (Herb) Cross of Citrus Heights, California, and Jeff (Cheryl) Hill of Port Orchard, Washington; his grandchildren, Mellissa (Ed) Bent, Alexia (Mario) Marches, Donnie Ramos, Eddy Bent, Jasmine Marchesi, Jillian Marchesi, Jacob Hill and Jenny Root; several great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by both parents, Jacob and Katherine; five sisters and two brothers.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Please share your memories of John and sign the guest book at www.shoshonefuneralservice.com

SHOSHONE FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORY KELLOGG, IDAHO is entrusted with services.