Jack Raymond Werst, 85

With heavy hearts, the family of Jack Raymond Werst bid their final farewell to their beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He passed away on Sunday, March 7, 2021, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He was 85 years old.

Jack was born on March 30, 1935, in Wallowa, Ore. He was the oldest of four children to Raymond and Geneva Werst. Jack learned the value of hard work while growing up on the family dairy farm. He graduated from Wallowa High School in 1953. Soon after graduation, he started his career in the sawmill industry with J. Herbert Bates as a millwright. He soon found a lifelong career where he worked for several sawmills throughout the northwest, ultimately working into plant management roles. Jack retired in 1994 as plant manager for Crown Pacific in Coeur d’Alene. Even after retirement from the sawmill, Jack still had a desire to work, this time selling the toys that he loved to play with as a sales representative at Specialty Sales & Services.

Throughout his life, Jack enjoyed his family and his hobbies. He was a member of the Coeur d’Alene Snowmobile Club and participated in cross country and oval snowmobile races. Jack loved to camp, fish, golf and keep his yard in pristine condition. In his later years, Jack enjoyed traveling south for the winter where he and Irene met several friends. Many of Jack’s greatest memories came from watching his grandkids and great-grandkids participate in their various activities. Everyone that knew Jack knew that he was very proud of his family and their achievements.

Jack is survived by his wife of 65 years, Irene; children Cindy Volk (Pat Sperry) of Meridian, Idaho, Neva (Bill) O’Haire of Great Falls, Mont., and Dan (Michelle) Werst of St. Maries, Idaho; brothers Dean (Jean) Werst of Wilsonville, Ore., and Gene (Francine) Werst of Richland, Wash.; 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; two uncles; and many other beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jack is preceded in death by his sister, Joan Roberts; daughter Lorna Benedict and grandson Brady Volk.

The family has decided to have a private celebration for Jack later this summer. They would appreciate any condolences, memories or stories to share be sent to Irene or comment on the obituary page at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.