Loran L. Marler

Loran L. Marler, 77, of Idaho Falls, died August 17, 2026, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. He was a loving husband, proud father, caring brother, and skilled fisherman.

Loran was born November 29, 1948, in Dillon Montana, to Kenneth H. Marler and Nadine Crystal Smith Marler. He joined one sister, Karen, and was later followed by a brother, Eric. Loran’s childhood was spent in Lima, Montana, roaming the hills, hunting, fishing the streams, and playing with his many friends and dog Rusty. He often reflected on these years as a happy childhood. He attended schools in Lima and graduated from high school, only because Jack Powers wouldn’t let him play basketball unless he passed his classes.

After high school, Loran worked with the Union Pacific Railroad in Butte, Montana, in various positions, eventually working as a telegrapher at the Dillon Depot. During this time, he married and his daughter, Jennifer, was born. A move to Salt Lake City led to new work as a salesman for General Electric Supply Company, ultimately leading to his career as an electrical cost estimator. A second child, Nicole, joined the family, and as she grew they came to share an artistic spirit and creative talents. Loran later divorced after a move to Idaho Falls.

Following a whirlwind workplace romance, he married Carmen Stoker, January 19, 1980, in Roberts, Idaho. They made their home in Idaho Falls, where they welcomed cats, dogs, and endless hobbies. In October of 1990, their son, Chris, was born. As their family grew, so did the joy, laughter, and adventure in the home. Through the years, Loran and Carmen grew together, developing a deep love for one another and treasuring the life they shared. As their life together took shape, Loran continued to work for various contractors and later at INL, for what he would describe as “too long”.

Loran developed a passion for fly fishing that extended far beyond his time spent on the water. He retired early to make memories with his son, Chris, teaching him everything he could about the great outdoors. Loran leaves behind an empty deck chair, silenced guitars, and a lifetime of shared memories with family and friends, tight lines and screaming reels.

Loran is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carmen; his children, Jennifer (Adam) Daugaard of Billings, Montana, Nicole (Dave) Johnston of Miles City, Montana, and Chris (Lexi) Marler of Idaho Falls, ID; his grandchildren, Jake Johnston, Cameron Daugaard, Koal Johnston, Chloe Johnston, Beau Johnston, and an eagerly anticipated granddaughter, Tommie Claire Marler; and his siblings, Karen (Joe) Shragge and Eric Marler.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Nadine Marler; and grandson, Sean Patrick Daugaard.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the services. Burial will be in Taylor Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Henry’s Lake Foundation in memory of Loran Marler, PO Box 319, Island Park Idaho 83429. Funds will be utilized in improving the quality of fishing at Henry’s Lake and protecting resources.

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