Woodrow Rabey

"Country" Woodrow Keith Rabey, age 61 years young, known as a strong and honest man, a caring husband, and devoted father and grandfather, passed away quietly on March 13, 2015, in his home in Grand View, Idaho, surrounded by his loving family.

Country was born April 6, 1953, in Manila, Ark., to Marquita "Rose" Rabey. In 1971, he joined the U.S. Army, where he was able to learn his trade as an auto mechanic, make memories and "embellish" stories that he was always happy to share with whomever would listen.

While stationed in Fort Ord, Calif., in 1974, Country met Arlene Alexander, who in 1975 became his wife and soul mate for the next 40 years. Together, they had three beautiful children, which led to the pride of Country's life, and that was his seven beloved grandchildren.

The family moved to Grand View in 1991. Country found his true home in this small farming town, and immersed himself in community work, including serving as a volunteer on the Grand View Fire Department, Ambulance Crew and local Sheriffs' Reserve.

His career included time as a mechanic at Simplot, and owner and operator of Rabey Repair Service -- a small business he shared with his mother, Rose. His later career path led him to Three Springs Correctional Facility in Mountain Home, where he worked until retirement.

Country spent every possible free moment fishing in the nearby Snake River, riding his Harley on every back road he could find, watching classic movies and old westerns, and pulling pranks on his family and friends. He enjoyed being with his grandkids more than he could ever express, but they always knew what was in their Papa's heart.

Country is survived by his wife, Arlene; their oldest daughter, April and her husband, Jason Theodozio, and their two daughters, Mackenzie, age 11, and Alexa, age 6; their only son, Keith Rabey and his two daughters, Maggie, age 3, and Adrianna, age 1; and their youngest daughter, Sabrina, her husband, Daniel Peterson and their three sons, Kobe, age 10, Kaeden, age 9 and Fabian age 7; his only sister, Marilyn and her husband, Phillip Stafford and their families. He is predeceased by his mother, Marquita "Rose" Rabey.

The Rabey family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at the Veteran's Hospital in Boise as well as the staff at Treasure Valley Hospice in Nampa for the extraordinary care and compassion they showed Country and his family during these difficult times.

A special memorial service is being planned for family and friends in late summer. Contact Rost Funeral Home in Mountain Home for details. Donations in memory of Country can be made to the Treasure Valley Hospice in Nampa and the VA Hospital in Boise.

Country leaves this world behind, but he takes with him much love from so many. He will be missed, and he will be remembered.