Kale Garland Tonks

Kale Garland Tonks, loving Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026.

Kale was born on December 6, 1956, in Pocatello, Idaho. His family moved to Nampа, ID when he was 2 years old and settled on a small dairy farm in Meridian when he was in the 4th grade.

Kale married Juanita Teter on November 30, 1975. They were blessed with two children.

Kale was a conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad and retired after 42 years of service. Most of his time was spent going to Green River, Wyoming and back. He and Nita enjoyed several special trips after his retirement.

Kale loved the outdoors and spent many happy times camping, hunting, fishing and anything to do with guns. Sitting around the campfire with family and friends was a favorite.

He is survived by his children Katie (Rich) Derie, Josh (Katie Lynn) Tonks, Grandchildren Dylan (Mackayla) Derie, Dalton (Melody) Derie, Dawsen Derie, Bailey Tonks, Chelsie Tonks, Great Grandchildren Maelynn and Evelynn Derie, a brother Steve Tonks, sisters Carole Irish and Gail Taylor and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a Granddaughter, Kodie Derie, his parents, Garland and Joyce Tonks, sisters Linn Hansen and Garla Rupp, a brother Paul Tonks, and his beloved dog Chewie.

Kale gave his life to the Lord on December 11, 1996. He loved to study God's Word, and after he was saved, he read through the Bible with commentaries over 20 times. Amazing Grace has always been a special song to Kale. In April 1997, he publicly showed his faith in his Lord and Savior through baptism. Following, he sang Amazing Grace. His greatest desire was to see Jesus. He has faithfully attended Mountain Valley Baptist Church for many years and loved his Pastor and church family. 

Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Mountain View Baptist Church, 202 South 7th Ave, Pocatello, ID. A viewing will be held prior from 1:00 – 2:00 pm. Burial will immediately follow at Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 South 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.

The family wants to thank Hospice for making Kale’s last days so comfortable and peaceful. Also, many thanks to Pastor Elijah and our church family, and extended family and friends who gave us encouragement, sent cards and faithfully prayed for Kale during his extended illness.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.