Herman Parley Byington

Herman Byington, 81, passed away on July 29, 2020 in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

He is survived by his wife Judy, his four children, Richard [Jamie], Rex [Patty], Melissa [Travis] and John [Juliet], thirteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Herman was born in 1938 in Idaho Falls, Idaho, the only son of Glen Byington and Ruth Schluter. He attended elementary and junior high schools in Idaho Falls and graduated from Ririe High School in 1957. He participated in drama and played football and basketball at Ririe.

He was honorably discharged from the United States Army Reserves after an eight year service period from 1956-1964. He began attending college at Utah State University in 1961. It was there in Logan, Utah that he met his wife Judy and later married her in 1963. He completed his education at the university in September 1965, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in social services. While living in Logan two boys were born to the couple, Richard in 1964 and Rex in 1966.

After a short stint working in social services in Rexburg, Idaho, Herman earned a teaching certificate from Utah State University and began an elementary school teaching career that spanned 20+ years, teaching in various locations including Laketown, Utah, Lyman Wyoming, Shelley, Idaho and finally returning to Ririe, Idaho.

He pioneered intramural programs in track and field events, chess, bicycle racing, dodgeball, and kickball at Ririe Elementary School for 5th and 6th grade students. He introduced the use of activity stations and gaming in his math classroom where students engaged in a variety of learning activities. He also spearheaded the establishment of youth football and basketball programs for 3rd through 6th grades. As a coach he prioritized the importance of sportsmanship, skill development and equal participation for all.

Herman was a hard worker throughout his entire life who always took care of his family. He was kind to those in need and regularly extended a helping hand to strangers and friends alike. He was a gregarious individual who could strike up a conversation with anyone. He had an infectious laugh and a playful sense of humor that brought joy to his family. He will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, August 1, 2020 at Nalder Funeral Home, 110 W Oak Street, in Shelley. The family will receive friends Saturday from 9:30 till 10:40 A.M. at the funeral home.









*