Bessie Irene Boutillier (82), a lifelong North Idaho woman with a spirited personality and a heart devoted to her family, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026, at Kootenai Health in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Bessie was born on March 3, 1944, in Condon, Oregon, to Frank and Georgie Owen. She spent her younger years in Oregon before her family relocated to Santa, Idaho, where she attended St. Maries High School.

Following her schooling, Bessie married the love of her early life, Gary Boutillier. Together they made a home in Emida before later settling in Fernwood, where they raised their two sons, Scott and Brett. Bessie was first and foremost a devoted homemaker who took pride in caring for her family. She later worked in the lunchroom at Upriver School, where she enjoyed serving the students and visiting with friends each day.

Life dealt Bessie a tremendous loss when Gary passed away in 1994. Not long afterward, she started dating John Magallon, and together they built a beautiful life over the next 32 years. Their years together were filled with companionship, laughter, countless road trips, and making memories at one of their favorite places, Dworshak Reservoir.

Following Gary's passing, she worked for Buds Drive-In where she enjoyed visiting with customers and friends alike.

If you knew Bessie, you knew she was wonderfully unforgettable. She was feisty, sassy, stubborn, and could be just a little bossy, but those who loved her wouldn't have changed a single thing. She spoke her mind, stood her ground, and loved her family with everything she had. Her strength, determination, and quick wit became some of the qualities her family will miss most.

Bessie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved fishing, camping, four-wheeling, huckleberry picking, and riding along on family hunting trips. Summers often found her bluebacking at Dworshak, where she was happiest surrounded by the water and those she loved. She enjoyed baking, canning, tending her garden and flower beds, and lovingly caring for her many plants. She was especially delighted in watching hummingbirds gather at the feeders outside her window.

She also knew how to enjoy herself. Whether she was playing bingo at the Fernwood Senior Center, working puzzles, playing cards, or joining in game nights, especially if a little money was involved, Bessie was always ready for a little friendly competition.

When declining health made it necessary, Bessie moved to the assisted living apartments at Valley Vista. Although it meant leaving the home she loved, she embraced this new chapter with the same determination she had throughout her life. There she formed cherished friendships with both residents and caregivers, many of whom became like family to her.

Bessie leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her love, her laughter, and even the moments when she insisted things be done her way.

She is survived by her loving companion of 32 years, John Magallon; her sons, Scott and Brandy Boutillier of St. Maries and Brett and Tessa Boutillier of Fernwood; her sister, Betty and Leon Esmay of St. Maries; her grandchildren, Jenna Boutillier and Johnny Harvey, Austin Boutillier, Brady Boutillier, and Kylie Boutillier; her great-grandson, Colter Harvey, with another great-grandchild expected soon; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whose lives were made richer by knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gary Boutillier, her parents, Frank and Georgie Owen, and siblings Allen Owen, Dick Owen, and David Owen.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the entire Cottage Care team at Valley Vista. Your kindness, compassion, patience, and genuine love brought comfort to Bessie and immeasurable peace to her family. They will forever be grateful for the exceptional care you provided.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026 – 11:00 am, at the Riverside Cemetery in Santa, ID.  A Celebration of Bessie’s life will be held at a later date to be announced at the Fernwood Senior Center.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Fernwood Senior Center, PO Box 414, Fernwood, ID 83830.