Donald Roy Lowry

Donald “Don” Roy Lowry, 97, of Boise, passed away peacefully at home on September 9, 2025. He was born on September 2, 1928, in Zurich, Kansas.

Don married the love of his life, Barbara Kyle, on June 22, 1951, and together they shared 74 wonderful years of marriage. They raised three children—Diane, David, and Susan—and built a life full of faith, family, and adventure.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara, daughter Diane, grandson Nate Lowry, and sister Patti Riemer. He is survived by his son David (Connie), daughter Susan Melby (Alan), many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who cherished him.

Don proudly served his country for four years in both the U.S. Army and Air Force before attending Boise Junior College. After his marriage to Barbara, they moved to Cheney, Washington, where Don completed his degree in education at Eastern Washington University. He later earned a master’s degree in special education from the University of Northern Colorado.

Don devoted 37 years to teaching in the Boise and Nampa School Districts. He coached football every year he taught, leaving a lasting impact on countless students.

Alongside Barbara, Don supported the creation of the Ada County Association for Retarded Citizens, a cause they both poured their hearts into. Though Barbara often took the lead, Don was faithfully at her side, providing encouragement and strength.

Don was a man of many talents and passions. He was an athlete, fisherman, church elder, Sunday school teacher, youth leader, husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished the annual Big Hole fishing trip with his grandchildren, and his love of history led him to explore Civil War battlefields and study Native American culture, even recreating their art and tools.

After retiring, Don and Barbara answered the call to teach in Russia for a year, where they traveled widely and embraced new cultures. They also embarked on an unforgettable nine-week journey across the Transcontinental Highway, visiting the eastern United States and fulfilling Don’s dream of touring Civil War battlefields.

At the center of it all was Don’s unwavering love for Barbara. Their partnership was marked by faith, devotion, and an adventurous spirit that inspired everyone who knew them. Together, they were lifelong members of Parkview Christian Church (formerly 9th and Franklin and University Christian Church).

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Idaho Home Health and Hospice, BrightStar Caregivers, and the many friends and loved ones who supported Don in his final days.

A graveside service will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Dry Creek Cemetery. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Parkview Christian Church, with lunch served afterward. Friends are also invited to “drive by and wave goodbye” at the graveside if they so choose. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Parkview Christian Church in Don’s honor.