Former Governor Dirk Kempthorne funeral set
Idaho officials and family members are mourning the passing of former Governor Dirk Kempthorne who passed away April 24 at the age of 74, reflecting on his decades of public service at the local, state, and federal levels.
Representative Josh Wheeler (D35) stated “I am deeply saddened to hear of former Governor Dirk Kempthorne’s passing. Dirk was a dedicated public servant whose leadership and commitment made a lasting impact on Idaho and beyond. His vision and integrity inspired many, and that legacy will continue to shape our community for years to come. My thoughts are with his family and all those who were fortunate enough to work alongside him.”
U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) issued a statement highlighting Kempthorne’s long career in public office. “Vicki and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Dirk Kempthorne, a faithful public servant who made a lasting mark on Idaho and our nation. From his time as Boise Mayor, U.S. Senator, Governor, and Secretary of the Interior, to his leadership of The Peregrine Fund and the USS Idaho Commissioning Committee, Dirk always had Idaho at the forefront of his efforts,” said Risch. “Idahoans owe a debt of gratitude to Dirk Kempthorne and his tireless work in strengthening what he calls the ‘43rd star in the galaxy of states that make up the greatest nation in the world.’ I am honored to have known Dirk, to have served alongside him, and to have called him a friend. He will be greatly missed.”
U.S. Representative Mike Simpson also released a statement remembering Kempthorne’s career and friendship. “Dirk Kempthorne was one of Idaho's most distinguished public servants and my dear friend of over 40 years," said Rep. Simpson. "Dirk's career was a testament to selfless dedication, from the halls of local government as Mayor and Governor to national service as Senator and Secretary. I join Idahoans today in mourning the loss of Dirk, but also feel immense gratitude for his decades of service, loyalty, and the lasting impact he has had on Idaho and America. I am grateful for Dirk's service to our state and nation, as well as his friendship all these years. To Patricia, his wife, and their children, Kathy and I extend our deepest condolences. May he rest in peace.”
The family of Governor Kempthorne had announced his passing on April 24, stating in a public release “Beyond his public service, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy came from time spent with family and the people he met along the way. He had a rare gift for truly seeing others — remembering names, stories, and the small details that made each person feel known and valued. Our family is heartbroken, but we are also deeply grateful — for the time we had with him and for the extraordinary outpouring of love and support we have received from across Idaho and the country. Please know how much your prayers, messages, and memories mean to us.”
Governor Brad Little also issued a statement reflecting on their long friendship and Kempthorne’s public service. “Teresa and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Governor Dirk Kempthorne. Our friendship goes back to our college days, where Dirk and I shared the same state government class – an experience that helped set the course for a lifetime of public service for him. We had the privilege of watching Dirk and Patricia begin their journey together. From the very beginning, it was clear Dirk and Patricia would lead lives as dedicated and passionate leaders. Dirk’s career was marked by extraordinary service at every level. His early work as an industry advocate and campaign manager for Phil Batt led to his leadership as a successful Boise mayor who helped change the trajectory of our capital city. During his distinguished tenure in the U.S. Senate, Dirk served Idaho with vision, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was right. As Governor, Dirk left an enduring mark on our state. With Patricia’s steadfast partnership, he championed children and families, strengthened public education, and led transformational investments in our transportation system that will benefit Idahoans for generations. He elevated Idaho’s voice on the national stage as chairman of the National Governors Association. We were all proud when President Bush selected Dirk to serve as Secretary of the Interior. In that role, he never lost sight of Idaho or the West. He understood the value of our lands and worked tirelessly to steward them with care and respect. Even after his time in public office, Dirk never slowed down. He remained a relentless advocate for our military and veterans, most recently championing the USS Idaho Virginia-class submarine. It is especially heartbreaking that he was not able to attend its commissioning this weekend — a moment he worked so hard to make possible. I will always remember Dirk’s generosity and warmth. He was thoughtful, gracious, and deeply committed to the people around him. To Patricia, Jeff, Heather, and their families, Teresa and I extend our heartfelt condolences. We join all Idahoans in honoring and celebrating a life of remarkable service to our state and our nation. Dirk’s legacy will endure for generations, and he will be deeply missed.”
On Friday, May 15 Governor Kempthorne will be honorably transferred to the Idaho State Capitol, where arrival honors will be rendered by the Idaho National Guard and Idaho State Police. Governor Brad Little will preside over the Capitol service, with Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane serving as Master of Ceremonies.
Governor Kempthorne will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda until 10 a.m. Saturday, May 16.
Lying in state is a ceremonial tradition in which a public official rests in a place of honor, providing an opportunity for the public to pay their respects.
On Saturday the 16th, at 11:00 a.m., the public is invited to attend or livestream the funeral at this link: https://www.cathedraloftherockies.org/sunday-worship/downtown-classic/
Following the service, a procession of family and invited guests led by the Idaho State Police will proceed to the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery for the interment ceremony.
A celebration of life ceremony will be held in Washington, D.C., at a later date.
Governor Little has ordered U.S. and State of Idaho flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Governor Kempthorne. Flags will be raised to full staff at sunrise on Sunday, May 17th.
