Harvey M. Billman

Harvey M. Billman, age 81, of Rigby, died Wednesday, September 30, 2009 at the Pine Brook Assisted Living Center in Rigby. Harvey was born November 8, 1927 in Garfield, Idaho , the son of Mortimer and Cora Jane Bate Billman. He grew up and attended school through the eighth grade in Garfield. He married Rhea May Lords, April 9, 1947 in Rigby, Idaho. This marriage was solemnized in the Idaho Falls L.D.S. Temple June 17, 1949. Rhea preceded him in death in November of 1998. He farmed and owned a dairy in the Garfield area all his life. While farming he worked for Rogers Brothers in Rexburg, Idaho. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a counselor in the Garfield 1st Ward Bishopric, and various other callings. He enjoyed serving his community, and hauled lumber and fruit for the locals. He enjoyed preparing barbeques for local and political functions. He prepared the barbequed meat for the Republican Party annual fund raiser for 39 years. He played Santa Claus for the Rigby Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations for several years. He served as President of the Jefferson County Farm Bureau, and served on the board of directors. He served as President and on the board of directors of the Harrison Canal. He was a director on the board for Farm Credit Services, and was supervisor for the Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District. He enjoyed music, farming, and riding his four wheeler at the ranch. He is survived by one daughter. Corene (Marvin) Nelson of LasVegas, Nevada and four sons. Joel (LaRee) Billman of Dubois, Craig (Patty) Billman of Rigby, Idaho; Neil (Karen) Billman of Galt, California; and Chad (Elaine) Billman of Rigby, Idaho. Survived by one sister Hazel Clegg of Idaho Falls, Idaho. Survived by 24 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. Preceded in death by his wife Rhea, two brothers, five sisters and one daughter Denise May, and one grandson Trevor Billman. Funeral service will be held Monday, October 5, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. in the Garfield L.D.S. Chapel, 71 North 3700 East Rigby, Idaho. The family will receive friends Sunday evening 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby, and Monday 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at the Chapel in Garfield. Burial will be in the Ucon Cemetery under the direction of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby.