RUPERT — Donald L. Kester Jr., 69, of Rupert, Idaho went to be with his Savior, Sunday, August 13, 2017. Donnie was born in San Diego, California, the only child of Donald L Kester Sr. of Minnesota and Ollie Belle Kester Sr. of Texas.

Donnie spent the first nine years of his youth on an acreage in sunny San Diego (El Cajon), CA. riding his pony and exploring.

In 1957 his father obtained a homestead in the desert area of Minidoka, ID where he experienced his first sage brush and rattle snakes.

The family moved to Rupert in 1960 where Donnie helped his dad build their house, raise cattle and drill wells.

After high school Donnie went to Boise State University; tried banking and realizing raising cattle was his passion. He spent the next 10 years working alongside his parents on their farm as well as his own farm. At the age of twenty six (1975) Don received an award naming him “Outstanding Conservationist of the Year” for Minidoka County.

In 1977 he met Linda Brown at the Wayside Café in Heyburn where she worked as manager, and two years later on September 1, 1979 they were married at his parents’ house with a hundred good friends and family members present.

In 1980 Donnie & Linda started a registered Black Angus cattle ranch and for 25 years raised prized Angus and heifers and breeding bulls.

They had two beautiful sons; Jake K. Kester in 1983 and Cody D Kester in 1984. Donnie was so very proud of his sons.

Fishing with his family and friends was Don’s favorite past time. He took much pleasure in his friends and neighbors and was always available to help out when he could. Donnie had several lifelong buddies that he felt close to and always enjoyed their company, whether partying, fishing or just hanging out.

Don is survived by his wife Linda, sons Jake of Boise, Cody of Rupert and mother-in-law Lucille A. Pierce of Rupert. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Don asked that no service be held, but just to remember him as a good friend, loving son and loyal husband and devoted farther.

Private Interment will be held under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary of Rupert.