J. Quin Gilbert

We regret to announce the passing of Quin Gilbert, whose unique character and wit will be greatly missed.

Quin was born to Harriet and DeMar Gilbert in Pocatello, Idaho. He learned hard work and the strength of a family bond from a young age at the family ranch in Inkom. He was a lettered varsity wrestler at Marsh Valley High School and took second in both district and state tournaments.

He joined the Army in 1968 and served proudly in the 47th Airborne Infantry Company in Panama. After an honorable discharge in 1971, he spent time exploring the country, hitchhiking and riding the rails around the United States and down into Mexico. During this time, he collected numerous experiences and stories that have left his children grateful to have existed at all.

Quin eventually made his way back to Idaho, where he received a qualification in graphic design at Idaho State University. He then followed in his family footsteps and became a full partner in the Gilbert Ranch cattle operation. He was a true cowboy, whose life and work embodied Idaho ranching culture, a legacy recognized through multiple features in local media.

Quin met Karen Marston in 1973. They married on September 12, 1975, where they pulled in the harness together for 50 years. Quin and Karen settled in Blackrock, where they raised 4 children, creating a lovely home and sanctuary that he treasured all through his life.

While working the ranch, he also worked full time at Simplot’s for 34 years. He held various positions throughout those years and forged numerous friendships. He was a proud union member who valued fairness, solidarity, and standing up for working people, and served for a time as a trustee.

He retired from Simplot in 2010 and managed the ranch full time until his full retirement in 2021. After which, he enjoyed traveling (especially to see his children and grandchildren), exploring the mountains, and taking long rides on his motorcycle. He also particularly enjoyed visiting Lava Hot Springs and striking conversation with anyone, whether he could hear them or not. He was a voracious reader and history buff, with a special interest in the civil war. He was a creative person and enjoyed leather and metal works. He loved being with his family and playing games (namely pinochle and cribbage) and always showed up for his grandchildren. He had a long, interesting life that cannot be summed up in brief.

Quin is survived by his wife, Karen, his children Brian Spahr, Jessica (Jeff) Johnson, Elizabeth Gilbert (Benn Huntley), Cole (Shannon) Gilbert, and Madelyn Aman (Andy), his grandchildren, Gwenyth, Gavin, Wyatt, Henry, Garret, Alice and Clara. He is also survived by his siblings DeMar (Donna) Gilbert, Becky (Kelly) Whitworth, and Jeane Staley.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Demar and Harriet Gilbert, and his brother Todd Gilbert.

Please join us to celebrate his life on Saturday, January 31st at 1:00 pm at the Bannock County Veterans Memorial Building, 300 North Johnson Avenue, Pocatello, Idaho 83204. A brief program will begin at 1:00 pm, followed by a light lunch and time for visiting and sharing memories.