Milford E. “Willy” Rose Jr., 80, of Twin Falls, Idaho, died Monday, Feb. 4, 2013, at his home.
He was born in Revloc, Pa., July 1, 1932, to Milford E. Rose and Ethel Walls Rose. The family moved to Alhambra, Calif., where Milford graduated from High School in 1951. Willy enlisted in the Navy (submarines) in 1952 during the Korean War. He served on the USS Bashaw-SS 241. When he came aboard, his commander would always say to the crew, “Time to dive; Rosie’s seasick.” Willy served two years in the Navy.
Willy met his future wife, Fran, on a blind date and they married in May 1956. They had three children, Mike, Judy, and Jenny. He became an electrician with the I.B.E.W. in Los Angeles, Calif., retired after 25 years and moved to Idaho where he worked for 10 years as an electrical inspector for the state, Blaine County and Twin Falls County.
After full retirement, his greatest love was working in his workshop to build small wooden toys for children in the Health and Welfare system at Christmas time. He was called “Santa’s Helper.” Willy took great joy and pride in doing the toys for nine years.
Wily leaves Fran, his wife of 56 years, three children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He will be missed by all those who knew him and loved him.
A celebration of Milford’s life took place at a graveside service Saturday, Feb. 9, at Sunset Memorial Park in Twin Falls with Bishop Steven Arrington conducting and military rites by the Magic Valley Honor Guard and the Idaho National Guard. Services are under the direction of Director Lance Cox and staff at Reynolds Funeral Chapel, Twin Falls. Messages of support can be left at www.reynoldschapel.com.
