Argus Observer (Ontario, Malheur County, Oregon)
Sunday, February 15, 2004
Karl Lewis Bronson
Sept. 8, 1916 - Feb. 10, 2004
Payette
Karl Lewis Bronson, 87, Payette, died suddenly Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2004, of natural causes. At his request, he was cremated under the direction of the Cremation Society of Idaho. A memorial service will be at a later date.
Karl was born Sept. 8, 1916, in Burley, the son of James and Camilla Bronson. The Bronsons are a several generation sheep, cattle and farming family that established Idaho roots in 1882.
After graduating from the University of Idaho in 1937, Karl served as Director of the Farmers Home Administration, Payette County for several years.
He married Mary Lou Hepworth June 1, 1941. Mary Lou died in 1999, after 58 years of marriage.
During World War II, Karl served in the United States Army from November 1943 until May 1946. Following his service, he returned to Payette and in 1947, with Ted Reins founded Growers Supply Co. Inc, one of the first sprinkler irrigation companies in Idaho. In 1996, the Idaho Irrigation Equipment Association awarded Karl their Man of the Year award in recognition for his outstanding contribution to the Irrigation Industry in Idaho.
Karl was in excellent health and continued to actively co-manage, Growers Supply, farms in Payette and Burley with his son Richard. He had a great love for the land and was happiest working on his farms and spending time with his family. He passed away as he wished "with his boots on" working until his last moment.
Karl is survived by five brothers and sisters, Ruth, Robert, Marilyn, Naomi, James, all in their 70's and 80's; Three sons and daughter-in laws, James and Shellie, Sun Valley, Richard and Marcy, Payette, Gregory and Jeannie, Boise; four grandchildren, Gretchen, McLean, Virginia, Jim, Payette, Megan, Portland, Carie, Mc Kinleyville, Calif.
Karl is preceded in death by his parents; wife and a grandson, Matt.
Karl would have liked to thank all of his many friends for their loyal support over the many years. Contributions to a charity of choice may be given in Karl's name.
The family would also like to thank the prompt response of the Fruitland Emergency Team, Holy Rosary Hospital, and St. Alphonsus Life Flight.
