Loren Harold Hart, age 80, born Sept. 14, 1928, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009, from heart disease. His early years were spent in Southern California. He graduated from Long Beach State University with an undergraduate degree in teaching followed by a master's degree in political science.
He was a longtime resident of Sun Valley, who first came to the valley in the early 1950s, working as a bellhop for the Sun Valley Lodge. From that experience he developed a love for Sun Valley that inspired him to later make his home and eventually retire here.
He had several careers throughout his life: Navy, Air Force, Merchant Marine, educator in the San Juan School District in Sacramento, Calif., and then went on to establish the Great American Video chain in Idaho and Oregon. He finally went on to pursue further his love of the ocean and boating by founding Lord Nelson Yachts, manufacturing ocean cruising sailboats and pleasure tugboats, especially the Victory tugboats that have become nationally known and sought after.
He cruised his own boats throughout the East and West coasts, from Alaska to New York, transiting the Panama Canal three times and cruising the Caribbean extensively.
He became an accomplished pilot who owned and operated several personal aircraft, both single and twin engine. His love of adventure totally consumed him. Surfing, skiing, biking, diving, flying, ocean fishing and sailing were all done with an abundance of gusto. Life was large for him.
He was preceded in death by his son Loren Harris Hart and is survived by his wife, Lani; his daughters, Bobette Bellows and Kathy Beadleston; two grandchildren, Morgan and Sydney Bellows; and a brother, Ron Smith.
The family will hold a personal service and remembrance party at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 270 S. Orchard, Suite B, Boise, ID 83705.
Arrangements are under the care of Wood River Chapel of Hailey. Condolences may be left at www.woodriverchapel.com.
