Bruce Dobson

Bruce Clifton Dobson, 76, of Ammon, Idaho, passed away September 14, 2026.

Bruce was born on January 6, 1950, in Fillmore, Utah, to Earl and Rosetta Dobson. He moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, as a toddler with his parents and brothers, Ferrell and Bradley. Not long after moving, they welcomed a baby sister, Denise. Bruce’s childhood consisted mostly of enjoying the outdoors such as fishing, hunting, camping, sports, and learning the game of golf, which he enjoyed the rest of his life. He was also lucky to achieve three hole-in-ones.

Bruce graduated from Skyline High School on May 22, 1969. On October 25, 1969, Bruce married Karen Jo Larsen in Idaho Falls. They were later sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple on January 6, 1982. Soon after their marriage, Bruce was drafted into the Army.

Bruce served as a Private in the 101st Airborne Division of Artillery. He served in the Vietnam War from 1969 through 1971 and earned several accomendations. His father also serving in the Navy, Bruce was known as an extremely proud veteran and American. He was rarely seen without his Vietnam Veteran hat on.

Soon after returning from Vietnam, Bruce and Karen wanted to start their family. They were blessed with their first son, Justin Earl Dobson, on May 10, 1972. Shortly after, came Braeden Jay Dobson on November 28th, 1973. Finally came a girl, Kiersten Dobson, on March 16, 1977. After being sealed in the temple in 1982, Bruce and Karen knew their family was not quite complete, and they then welcomed Somer on August 16, 1984.

Bruce supported his family as an asbestos professional for the INL and was president of The United Way for several years. After retiring, Bruce decided to try long haul trucking which he thoroughly enjoyed. He loved seeing the country and would often take Karen, their children, and their grandchildren along.

Bruce was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held many offices during his time, including serving two missions with his wife. He enjoyed playing church basketball and was best known for his role as Scout Leader, the Scout Master. Bruce was a master tinkerer, and we all know the lessons he taught those men they still know today. Bruce could fix anything. Bruce was active at all times, coaching baseball, taking care of his horses, hunting, and golfing almost every day. He enjoyed helping his neighbors and could usually be found tinkering in his garage.

Bruce and Karen were the most supportive parents, grandparents, great grandparents, and adopted grandparents to many children that knew them. You could always count on them to attend every school program, sporting event, concerts, and more. Bruce continued after our mother passed away two years ago. They were also known to attend nieces and nephews events, kids in their ward, and children our mom taught in school. Bruce was also known to buy the t-shirts of whichever school he was representing.

Bruce is survived by his son, Justin (Holly) Dobson of Nampa, ID; Braeden (Cheri) Dobson of Rigby, ID; daughter, Kiersten Dobson Taylor of Ammon, ID; daughter, Somer (Brady) Stewart of Rigby, ID; sister, Denise (Blaine) O’Neil; and 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Karen Jo Dobson; his parents, Earl and Rosetta Dobson; both brothers, Ferrell and Bradley Dobson; and his grandson, Brycen Blackburn.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Idaho Falls Stonehaven Ward, 2055 Coronado Street. The family will visit with friends Friday from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Ammon Cemetery. Military Honors will be performed by the Bonneville County Veterans Memorial Team and Idaho Honor Guard.

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