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David Keith Severe

Apr. 11, 1950 - Jul. 19, 2025

Date of Service: Jul. 29, 2025

ELBA – It turns out that even God needs a good man to run his cattle. On Saturday afternoon, Keith rejoined his Father on heaven’s ranch. As he was inclined to do, he probably stopped along the way to help change a few tires, give someone water for their radiator, or just visit with a friend.

He was born into an incredible family who taught him to work hard and enjoy doing it. He loved his five brothers and his only sister. They’re probably to blame for his teasing habit. They grew up south of Oakley and Almo working and raising cattle with their mother and father who taught them what Keith described as the only things that matter: how to work and how to treat people. He was well-known for both.

After attending Raft River and Oakley schools, Keith graduated from Oakley High School in 1968. A mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Sweden, was next. Serving the Swedish people was an experience he cherished.

Keith had the opportunity to serve in the United States Idaho Army National Guard here in Burley and often shared humorous stories from basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey. Keith and Sally’s first date was a dance organized by his national guard unit.

Beautiful and strong were the qualities Keith was looking for when choosing an eternal companion; he found them in spades when he met Sally. He knew that life on the range would not be easy and that his partner would have to be both tough and tender. Together they raised a family of three boys and two girls who absolutely adored their father and loved to go work with Dad no matter the task.

He was a patient teacher of his children, grandchildren and even friends when necessary. His brandings were a place everyone could learn how to rope, ride and mug calves without getting yelled at. You could always find him standing next to a grandchild quietly helping them better handle their rope, horse, or calf. His example, however, was his greatest teaching tool. He was always where needed and never put his horse away early.

Keith served for nearly 15 years as president of the 71-grazing association. This time was both a labor of love and a sign of the trust and respect the community had for his work ethic and abilities as a cattleman.

He raised and rode good horses and used to say; “There is no supplement or shortcut that will make up for a lack of training or time.” This was applied equally to his horses and his children.

Keith never knew a person he couldn’t make a friend or a job he was too important to do. He will be remembered as the cowboy who always took the ‘long circle’ and helped others without expecting anything in return.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, David Kent and Thelma Elison Severe; older brother, Kent Severe; sisters-in-law, Judy Severe and Diann Severe; and grandson, Sean Loughmiller.

He will be missed by his wife and eternal companion, Sally; children, JuliAnn (Heber) Loughmiller of Elba, David (Kristi) Severe of Devil Creek, Kerri (Ryn) Darrington of Declo, Branden (Cynthia) Severe of Malta, and Matt (Anna) Severe of Castleford; eighteen grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

For most people, it would be hard to sum up their life with a single sentence. For Keith, one sentence tells you everything: “He left every place he worked and every person he met better than he found them.”

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 29, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 1198 East 2000 South, in Elba, with Bishop Austin Udy officiating. Burial will follow at Grand View Cemetery in Elba, with military rites provided by the Mini-Cassia Veterans Group and the United States Idaho National Guard.

Family and friends will be received from 5 until 7 p.m. Monday, July 28, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 East 16th Street, in Burley, and from 10 until 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, preceding the funeral, at the church.

A live webcast of the Funeral Service will be available and maintained at the following link: https://youtu.be/GlZXVs0KPcw.

Condolences for David Keith Severe

Comments may be screened and removed by the staff as deemed appropriate.

From Roxanne Hendrix :

Keith, when I was living with you and Sally I was working at Four Jacks, you and Sally went out of your way to make me feel good about myself. When I had a flat tire on the way to work and you guys called Four Jacks and found out I didn't make it there, you came all the way to check on me. That is what kind of man Keith was, making sure I was safe, so I know God has received a wonderful soul.

From Kendall Severe:

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'll always remember Keith as a really kind and good man, with a fun sense of humor. My prayers to you all.

From Lance Arnout:

Keith and Sally were second parents to me! Oh how I cherish the time I spent at their house and playing sports with Dave. Keith was always so busy, but never missed a game. I always hear two voices yelling encouragement, my dad and Keith. When I think of growing up, the Severe’s played such an important role in my life, Sally, you and your family are in my prayers. Let’s hope we can all get back to where Keith is! Love you

From Nancy Brackett:

Keith will be missed at the branding. He was always willing to help at any job.. One year he heated all the tortillas on the BBQ for lunch. Sally, so sorry for your loss.

From Renee and Jerry WELLS:

Although I have only seen Keith occasionally since our high school graduation, I have held fond memories in my heart for the strong yet tender personality that made Keith an easy friend to deeply care about and fondly remember and recall. Keith was a great kid and an honorable and good man. He was one of the best of what us “oldies” know as a real cowboy, He will be missed, Our prayers are with Sally and her family.

From Ken and Sharon Baily:

So sorry to hear of Keith's passing. I know its been many ago but we have fond memories of the good times we had going to young adult activities with you guys. I also had the privilege of serving in the National Guard with Keith for several years, he was a good friend we send our love and prayers to you and your family. Love and prayers to you and your family.

From Taylor Hansen:

A poem for you Sally - I hope this helps. I love your family so much. Grateful for the memories of you and Keith that I have.

“When I die, give what’s left of me away to children and old men that wait to die. And if you need to cry, cry for your brother walking the street beside you, and when you need me, put your arms around anyone and give to them what you need to give to me. I want to leave you something, something better than words or sounds. Look for me in the people I’ve known or loved, and if you cannot give me away, at least let me live in your eyes and not on your mind. You can love me most by letting hands touch hands, by letting bodies touch bodies, and by letting go of children that need to be free. Love doesn’t die, people do. So, when all that’s left of me is love, give me away.” - Merrit Malloy

From Deanna Rodriguez:

Sally,
My love and prayers for you and your family.
Keith was always a favorite and such a great role model for the boys(well-they used to be boys!). Truly a great man.
He will be missed by many.
Love you Sally

From Susan Flores:

So sorry to hear about Keith's passing. He was the best looking cowboy. Mustache always on point, new wrangler's and clean boots. But his voice was his song from his soul. By Keith, ride into the sunset!!

From Allan Justesen :

Sorry to of his passing, prayers for the family

From JimiLyn (Bunker) League:

Keith was definitely one of a kind! He always made me feel included and like a part of the family. He could always put a smile on my face and make me laugh!! Every time I see David I see Keith, they not only look alike but they both have gentle hearts and are true cowboys! You will truly be missed Keith!!

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