Hugh Ireland, 76

Hugh Calvin Ireland, 76, of Rigby, passed away at this home on April 13th, 2007.

He was born June 16, 1930, in Boise, a son of Paul Walter Ireland and Alberta Hobsen Ireland. He married Norma Ann Riddle, Aug. 21, 1955, in Mountain Home.

Hugh lived to work and work hard, his family said.

He spent four years in the Navy Seabees and built airstrips and bases during the Korean War. In February 1956 Hugh went to work for Burggraf Construction Company, where he spent the next 41 years working highway construction.

After his "retirement," Hugh spent the next nine years helping a friend build his construction business, where he could still use his "road boss" skills to influence the workers.

Hugh and Norma owned and operated Ireland's Acres Mobile Home Park in Rigby since 1970. Hugh enjoyed the western way of life, ranching, horses, cattle and working around the house. Hugh enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing and spending time at his cabin in Island Park. One of the most important things in Hugh's life was his grandchildren. He enjoyed a variety of activities with them, including first four wheeler rides to playing games at Grandpa's house. Hugh enjoyed dinner dates with his wife and friends and early mornings at the coffee shop.

He is survived by: his wife, Norma Ann Ireland, of Rigby; two sons, Jeff (Terri) Ireland of Rigby and Frank (Candice) Ireland of Idaho Falls; four sisters, Elma Jorgensen of Fayetteville, N.C., Grace (Bill) Harder of Prescott, Ariz., Elizabeth (Clyde) Munas of Hoschton, Ga., Judy Ireland of Prescott, Ariz., and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Bill Ireland.

Funeral services were held April 17. in Bethel Baptist Church in Rigby with Pastor Jason Ehmann officiating. Burial was in the Rigby Pioneer Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.eckersellfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be sent to the Bethel Baptist Church (3866 East 400 North Rigby, Idaho 83442), Rexburg Christian Center (241 South 5th West Rexburg, Idaho 83440), or the Hope Lutheran Church (2071 12th Street Idaho Falls, Idaho 83404).