Fred Hossner
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Fred Richard Hossner, life-long resident of Ashton, Idaho passed away Thursday, February 11, 2021, at the age of 80, with his wife and daughters by his side. Fred was born on the family farm in Greentimber, Idaho, on February 2, 1941. He was the third of six children born to Earl and Yoland Hossner.
Fred began his education at the two-room Greentimber school house beside the Hossner Ranch. After 5th grade, the Fremont County schools consolidated and he finished schooling in Ashton. He was an active member of the football team, ski team, FFA, and Honor Society. Following high school, Fred joined his two older brothers at the University of Idaho where he graduated in accounting.
It was the Vietnam era and the Army beckoned. He took advantage of a deferment and headed to Washington DC to spend time with family. It was there that he met his forever love, Elizabeth DeGraaf, on a blind date. They married a mere eight months later in Liz's hometown of Bar Harbor, Maine, in the fall of 1965. They traveled together for his two years of stateside military service.
Fred was passionate about motorcycles and felt the only one worth riding was a Harley Davidson. He bought his first bike when he was just 15 years old. Going for a "scoot" on the Harley to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area was a favorite pastime.
Fred worked as business manager for Fremont County School District 215. He kept a tight rein on spending, and the budget "stayed in the black" during his 32 year tenure. He also had the dubious task of calling school snow closures which were determined by impassable roads or minus 20 degree temperatures throughout Fremont County.
He was part of the Hossner Brother's Auction Company. Hossner siblings, wives, and kids spent many weekends holding auctions in the area. Fred, ring man, kept everyone's attention with his booming "Hey!" as bidders were identified. For many years, he also ran a tax business out of his home.
Fred was the father of three daughters. They were his proudest achievement. Over the years, he watched them become strong, independent women. Later, his grandchildren and sons-in-law were a happy addition to the family. Especially memorable were the four all-family vacations to Maine, Florida, California, and a trip to the San Juan Islands for a 50th wedding anniversary celebration.
Fred is survived by his wife Elizabeth; daughters, Jennifer (Andrew) Rowland of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Jill (Rocky) Elliott of White Salmon, Washington; four grandchildren, Benjamin, Katherine, Koa, and Maya. He is survived by four siblings, Lynn of Ashton, Janet of Ward Cove, Alaska, Karl (Janalu) of Coalstrip, Montana, Diane (Chuck) Marzen of Aiken, South Carolina, plus numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Amy, his parents, and oldest brother Larry.
A heart-felt thank you to Tegan, One Source Hospice nurse, for her skillful care and compassion during Fred's final days.
Fred was a practical man and he left behind a bit of sage advice for his grandchildren: Do not take shortcuts. Do things that your parents would be proud of and won't make your grandparents pull their hair out.
A celebration of Fred's life will take place later this year at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers or other memorial gifts, please consider making a donation to the Museum of the Henry's Fork Foundation in Ashton, Idaho. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.baxterfh.com.