Wesley H. "Wes" Story, a longtime resident of Fernwood, Idaho, passed away on July 30, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on June 10, 1941, in Nampa, Idaho, to James and Lydia Story. Wes grew up in southern Idaho, where he developed the strong work ethic, love of the outdoors, and larger-than-life personality that would define him throughout his life.

In 1981, Wes married the love of his life, Vicky. Together they made their home in the Caldwell and Nampa areas, where Vicky lovingly cared for their family while Wes worked hard to provide for them. Following his retirement in 2001, the couple purchased property near Fernwood and relocated there in 2002, finding the peaceful mountain life they had always dreamed of.

Wes proudly served his country in the United States Army and spent his working years as a mechanic, machinist, logger, and true jack-of-all-trades. If something needed fixing, Wes could usually find a way to make it work. He was known as an incredibly strong man, a tireless worker, and someone who would gladly lend a hand—or even a place to stay—to anyone who needed it. To Wes, family wasn't just determined by blood; once he cared about you, you were family.

The outdoors was where Wes felt most at home. He loved fishing, hunting, horseback riding, motorcycles, four-wheelers, side-by-sides, circle track racing, and picking huckleberries. But above all else, Wes absolutely loved winter. He looked forward to every snowfall, finding pure joy behind the wheel of a machine, clearing roads and driveways with a smile on his face. He also took great pride in the natural springs and water on his Fernwood property and never missed an opportunity to brag about them to friends and visitors. Nothing made him happier than sharing the beauty of the place he called home.

Wes is survived by his children, Jim (Marie) Story of Nampa, Idaho, John Story of Nampa, Idaho, Ellen Davenport of Fernwood, Idaho, Samuel Armas of Fernwood, Idaho, Mary Thorson of Nampa, Idaho, and Yolanda Padilla of Nampa, Idaho. He is also survived by Clark Archer of Fernwood, Idaho, Eric Garcia of Nampa, Idaho, Stephanie Kay of Fernwood, Idaho, grandchildren Erika Story, Jazmen Armas, Jess Palmer, Brett Palmer Jr., Colton Armas, Ben Armas, Cameron Armas, and several great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vicky; his daughter, Lydia Van; his arents, James and Lydia Story; and his brother, Robert Story.

Wes will be remembered for his strength, generous heart, unforgettable sense of humor, and his deep love for his family and the great outdoors. His laughter, stories, and willingness to help anyone in need will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Also always said jokingly fukem if they can't, take a joke , jokem if they can't take a fuk.

A celebration of Wes's life will be announced at a later date.