Richard C. Van Fossen

“If it ain’t broke, it ain’t ours” Dad would comment all to frequently. He didn’t have many “Dadisms,” but that was an all time favorite. I didn’t realize we owned so much junk!! (We didn’t, he just like saying it).

Richard C. “Dick” Van Fossen arrived in the world on November 29, 1937, in Carroll, Nebraska. Shortly thereafter, the family migrated west to Boise, Idaho and sister Sharon was born. After attending Boise schools, Dick decided to join his buddy and enlist in the Navy in 1954. He spent most of his time on the Sprockton, in the Hawaiian Islands being a radarman. After 4 years of service, Dick returned to civilian life and met Pauline Ross. They married May 12, 1961. Of this union, 2 children were born, Craig and Sandra.

Dick worked in the printing business for many years at Symms York and the Idaho Statesman and eventually opened his own print shop.

He also worked on various construction jobs throughout the valley, notably the Lucky Peak Dam project and the pipe under the Boise River at the Glenwood Bridge.

Dick had an affinity for old classics, both in cars and music. Model A’s, Model T’s, and ’56 Ford pickups.

Dick passed away at home on Sunday, August 23, 2026, with his daughter by his side.

Dick is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Pauline.

He is survived by son, Craig and his children Kris and wife Alysse, (Ainsley, Declan, Jesse), Kevin and wife Ashley, (Aspen, Charlie) and Kayla; daughter, Sandra, honorary daughter, Alexis Wentworth; sister, Sharon Thompson of Boise, and her children, Shelley, Guy and Jeffrey.

“Dad…I had the pleasure (mostly) of living with you these past 11 years after Mom’s death. You were always there for me…didn’t judge or try to control me. You were a bit of a mystery even after all this time. I could tell you anything and I knew you would keep it to yourself. You despised Trump, liked PBS and the news, and of course…Johnny Cash. You were a progressive thinker and had an eclectic taste in music…yes, you were a music man..but most of all…you were my friend, and my Dad. I will miss you…I love you Dad."

This time…it’s not "good enough for who it’s for”

~Love, Your Daughter

Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.