Grant Warren Gillette, 75, of Twin Falls, died in his home Aug. 15,2007. Grant was born Nov. 5, 1931, in Twin Falls, to Howard and Laura Gillette. Grant attended Twin Falls High School, University of Pacific in California and University of Idaho and graduated in 1954. He was a proud member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and an avid Vandal Booster.
Grant married the love of his life, Norma Jean Hall, who preceded him in death, on April 6, 1956. They were married in Twin Falls, Idaho.
Grant worked for Allstate Insurance company for 39 years. He was an Allstate Honor Ring Winner for 30 years. He was an Allstate National Champion several times, Allstate Chairman's Circle winner three times and Allstate Chairman's Inner Circle winner two times. He was an insurance icon for his years of service and reputation. He is still recognized in the Northwest region and not forgotten even after retirement. One of his weekly highlights was the Wednesday luncheon meetings with his associates and close friends from his days with Allstate.
Grant is survived by his children, Toni Gillette of Nampa, Brent (Janis) Gillette of Haney, Karen Gillette (Pat McAllister) of Boise, Sherri (Bill) Knobloch of Boise, and Sandy (Dexter) McBride of Boise; and one sister, Mary 'Mitzi' Crowson of Boise. His grandchildren, Phillip (Rachel) Bear of Boise, Jenna, Sarah, Nicole, Michael, Darby, Will and Marlowe.
Grant loved camping, hunting, golfing, fishing, swimming at the YMCA, fine food, traveling to Italy, Hawaii and Mexico. He instilled an appreciation for all these things in his children.
Nothing satisfied Grant more than family gatherings: campouts, birthday parties, barbecues, holidays, and game night in the home. He provided for his family, and at the same time he always extended himself to others in the community and especially their friends. Grant volunteered for the American Red Cross, is an Elks member and an active Vandal Alumni.
Grant had dreams, but he wasn't a dreamer. He believed in seizing the moment and putting things into action, be it a trip to Disneyland with his grandkids or a Notre Dame football game in Indiana. Grant did more than just dream. He made things happen, which is one of the reasons why we celebrate his life, for it was a testament to the necessity of living fully.
Recently, Grant was fortunate enough to have met a dear woman, 'Lu' Kruger, and they spent special times together the past five years.
A memorial of Grant's life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday Aug. 18, 2007, at Reynolds Funeral Chapel, 2466 Addison Avenue, Twin Falls (208) 733-4900.
A celebration of his life will be held afterward and is open to all family and friends. The location will be announced at the service. The family wishes to thank all those for their kind thoughts and prayers.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Grant Gillette's name to the American Red Cross of Greater Idaho, 404 South 8th St., Suite 232, Boise ID 83702 or The University of Idaho Alumni Association.
