Don Franklin Marrs, Jr.

Don Franklin Marrs, Jr.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, And I — I took the one less traveled by, And that made all the difference.”

Robert Frost

Don Franklin Marrs, Jr., 81 of Eagle, Idaho passed away on July 22, 2023 after a valiant battle with COPD and Lewy Body dementia. Don was born on June 20, 1942 to Don F. Marrs, Sr. and Barbara Harris Marrs in Santa Monica, California. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his brothers, Christopher Marrs and Timothy Marrs. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jane Marrs, and his brother Michael P. Marrs.

Don grew up in the suburbs of Washington,D.C.. He excelled in school, winning a state wide essay contest titled “What America Means To Me”. He also took first place in a Washington, D.C. wide diving competition against older competitors when he was in the seventh grade. After graduating from Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda Maryland, Don attended The University of Maryland, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in economics, with a minor in Literature. During college, he worked as a police officer at the U.S. Capitol and operated a “Senators Only “ elevator (his paycheck listed him as an “engineer of vertical transportation“). He was also a competitive springboard diver and participated in the University of Maryland rifle team.

Don was a true renaissance man. He excelled at everything he tried to do and became skilled in many activities. He was a pilot, a writer, and a golfer. He had a lifetime passion for cars, as a collector and a competitive driver. Don made his living as a residential builder and designer, but he also authored several books.

He and Jane enjoyed traveling, with many trips to Europe and once to China. They had a love for all animals, particularly their many dogs who they treated as their children.

More than his accomplishments, Don will be remembered by his friends for his peaceful nature, quiet intelligence, quick wit, and constant competence. He was a truly gentle man, humble, soft spoken, and unassuming. Don and Jane could always be counted on for assistance, helping many friends and family members financially.

Don’s family would like to thank the entire staff at Silver Perspective, especially Laura Dedo, for the wonderful care Don received over the last year. In honor of Don’s request, no memorial service will be held. Should anyone wish, a donation can be made in remembrance of Don to the Idaho Humane Society website.