Stan R. Kress passed away in his sleep Sunday, July 7, 2013, under the care of hospice. Stan was born Oct. 25, 1943 in American Falls, ID, to Raymond and Fawn Kress. Stan was the second of four brothers (Ron, Stan, Mike and Randy) and grew up on the family farm in Rockland. Farm life instilled in him an exemplary work ethic and a love for horses and the great outdoors. Stan excelled in academics and sports; he was captain of the basketball team, quarterback of the football team, and a four-year member of the “A Club”. Stan was the Boys’ State attendee, member of the student council, senior class representative, and a National Merit Scholar.
In 1962 Stan married Carolyn F. Roberts. They had four children, Maria, Rob, David and Mark. At the age of 25, Stan became the state of Idaho’s youngest Superintendent of Schools. Stan served as the District 27 State Senator from 1974 to 1976. He ran for Congress in 1976 and 1978. He was an unknown baby-faced Democrat who nearly dethroned the incumbent juggernaut. From 1979 to 1995 Stan served in the Governor’s cabinet as the Director of Social Security Disability Determinations. He received national recognition and awards for his leadership and innovations.
In 1980 Stan married Suzanne Thomas, adding Joe Pollard and Carrie Gilstrap to his family. In 1983 son Tom Kress joined the Boise clan. In 2007 Stan moved permanently into the dream cabin he built overlooking Terrace Lake’s 12th fairway and green, and became Superintendent of Schools in Garden Valley. He worked tirelessly to help Garden Valley pass a bond and build a desperately needed new school, something Garden Valley had been unable to do for 20 years. Stan fought for better funding for schools, and strove for excellence in all his endeavors. He was gregarious, bright and liked to be in charge. He was proud of his family and their accomplishments. He intended to spend his retirement years improving his golf game, wooing the ladies, and admiring the beautiful view from his cabin. We wish that life had granted him that. Dad you made a difference and you will be missed. You made your mark and can proudly say – “I did it my way.”
Dad was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ron and his granddaughter Monica. He is survived by his children: Maria and Greg Wilson, Pocatello; Rob and Deborah Kress, Germany; David and Nyla Kress, Soda Springs; Mark and JoAnna Kress, Hagerman; Tom Kress, Boise; 17 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; his brothers Mike and Randy; his sisters-in-law; and other friends and loved ones.
Saturday, July 13, the family greeted family and friends from 2 to 3 p.m. at the LDS Church on Snowflake in American Falls. Stan’s celebration of life will begin at 3 p.m. The family asks that instead of flowers you contribute to your local school district or send checks to: Idaho Education Association, Attn: Children’s Fund – Honor of Stan Kress; 620 N 6th St, Boise, ID 83702. You may request a receipt. The IEA Children’s Fund is a 501(c)(3) organization and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. For the full obituary go to davisrosemortuary.com.
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