Mar. 16, 1936 - Jun. 7, 2026
Date of Service: Jun. 13, 2026
Watch the Webcast
Service Program
Eldon William Searle, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Parke View Rehabilitation and Care Center in Burley, Idaho, surrounded by the family he so deeply loved, at 90 years old.
Early Life and Marriage
Eldon was born March 16, 1936, in Burley, Idaho, the sixth of seven children born to Jesse Fielding and Mabel Emerine Smith Searle. Growing up, he cherished traveling with his family and fond memories of summer fishing vacations.
He received his education in Burley and graduated from Burley High School, class of 1954. Eldon shared his feelings of the music program at the high school, “Roman Tross, the band director, was a big influence in my life. I still like the music of the 1950s much better than what they play today. Playing in the pep band at the ball games around the area was my favorite extracurricular activity. I also liked going to music competitions and festivals.” Eldon played the clarinet, the harmonica and he enjoyed yodeling.
Following high school he served four years in the United States Army National Guard.
On July 8, 1954, Eldon married the love of his life, Gwen Kidd, in the Idaho Falls Idaho Temple. Together, they settled in the View area of Cassia County, Idaho, where they built a beautiful life and raised their five children.
Life's Work and Faith
A man of strong work ethic, Eldon spent his life serving his local community in various roles. He helped on the family farm, worked for two years alongside a local veterinarian, and spent time surveying underground telephone lines for PMT. He later dedicated many years to Ore-Ida Foods and Magic Valley Foods, where he worked until his retirement.
Eldon was a faithful, lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served diligently in numerous church callings throughout his life. He found immense joy in all his service but a special place in his heart was held for his time serving as the High Priest group leader in the View Ward.
Family Legacy
Eldon’s greatest joy and proudest achievement was his family. He is survived by his five children, Brent (Tina) Searle, Brenda (Dennis) Toland, Tara (Kem) Peterson, Kerry (Roxann) Searle, and Brian (Malisa) Searle. His incredible legacy continues to shine through his 31 grandchildren, 87 great-grandchildren, and two great-great
grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Dorothy Kidd; and his brother-in-law, Fred Hawker.
Eldon was reunited in eternity with his beloved wife, Gwen; his parents, Jesse and Mabel Searle; and six of his siblings, Smith Searle, Glen Searle, Phyllis Heward, Helen Lowder, LuDene Tanner, and Florence (who passed at birth). He was also preceded in death by two grandsons, Spencer Nielson and Bret Peterson; and one great-granddaughter, Gracyn Searle.
Service Details
Visitation and Viewing
5 until 7 p.m. Friday, June 12, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley.
10 until 10:45 a.m. Saturday, June 13, at the church prior to the service.
Funeral Service
11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - View 2nd Ward, located at 490 E. 550 S., of Burley, with Bishop Clint Bronson officiating.
Interment
Burial will immediately follow the funeral service at the View Cemetery.
A Note of Gratitude
The Searle family extends their deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Parke View Rehabilitation & Care Center for the exceptionally tender care provided to Eldon during his stay.
They also wish to thank Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home for their professional guidance, immense kindness, and personal care in fulfilling Eldon’s final wishes.
A live webcast of the Funeral Service will be available and maintained at the following link: https://youtu.be/PoYhWpnaxWA.
A live webcast of the Graveside Service will be available and maintained at the following link: https://youtu.be/PTpmEu6Csqk.
