Obituary for John Herbst - East Idaho News
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Obituary

John Herbst

August 17th, 1952 - January 29th, 2026

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John Dale Herbst, 73, of Idaho Falls, passed away on January 29, 2026, after a tough battle with cancer. His daughters, Laci and Magan, were by his side.

John was born on August 17, 1952, in Blackfoot, Idaho, to Kenneth Dale Herbst and Carma Jean Harker Herbst. He was raised in the Blackfoot area and graduated from Snake River High School.

In 1973, John married Jeanette Casper, and they were blessed with two children, David and Heidi. They later divorced.

Through coed softball he met his sweetheart Shellie Dawn Cordingley. They married on May 18, 1996, in Idaho Falls. They were blessed with two daughters, Laci and Magan.

John spent many years farming potatoes before transitioning into logging, a career he truly loved. He cherished his time in the mountains and often said he had the best office in the world. The mountains were truly his happy place. His love for the outdoors was evident in the many hours he spent logging, camping, hunting and snowmobiling, sharing that love with family and friends.

John’s grandchildren were the greatest joy of his life, and he was honored to hold the title of Grandpa-Great. He loved supporting his family through both big milestones and small everyday moments. Family time meant everything to John, and he loved each of them dearly.

John was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He faithfully served in many callings. He was an example of “silent service.” His anonymous acts blessed many.

John will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his eternal companion, Shellie Dawn Cordingley Herbst; his father, Kenneth Dale Herbst; his father-in-law, Guy Delane Cordingley; and his mother-in-law, Connie Rae Cordingley.

He is survived by his children, David (Jamie) Hanson, Heidi (Steve) Olson, Laci (Deryk) Biggs, and Magan (Chase) Mecham; his mother, Carma Jean Herbst; as well as 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the Orvin Ward, 6925 North 15th East. The family will meet with friends and family Thursday, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 South Ammon Road, and again Friday from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Pine View Cemetery in Ashton, Idaho.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.

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