Gary Norris Pinkerton 

May 18th, 1943 – December 21st, 2024

Gary Norris Pinkerton was born on May 18th, 1943, in North Platte Nebraska to Norris Nelson “Moose” Pinkerton and Julia Mae Francis “Peggy” Knaggs Pinkerton.

The family relocated to North Idaho near Copeland when Gary was 3 years old. They soon purchased the property that will be known as the Pinkerton Farm. Gary began the 1st grade in the old Copeland school but was transferred to the newly built Mt. Hall school halfway through the year.

Gary excelled in sports and loved his time playing football for the Badgers. The family business called him back, so he left school his senior year to focus on the farm. Gary was a legendary skilled truck driver, a passion that defined his entire life. He was also known for his great love for a good time. You cannot mention his name in Bonners Ferry without being regaled with stories about him and his “partners in crime” Bob Myers, Johnny Schneurle and Milt Hittle.

In 1966 Gary met the love of his life, Darlene Dillard, on a blind date. They were wed on June 1st, 1968, at the Mt. Hall church. Gary and Darlene welcomed four children over the years. In 1975 Gary and Darlene purchased the Pinkerton family farm from his parents, where he continued the farming and trucking tradition.

Not enough can be said for Gary’s love for his family, it was the foundation of his being. He was an amazing father, grandfather, and great grandfather.  The other great love of his life was camping. Many wonderful family memories were made around the campfires at Robinson Lake where Gary and Darlene were campground regulars.

There are too many tales to tell about the shenanigans of Gary’s youth, so please smile as you remember him, and help us keep the stories alive!

Gary was preceded in death by his wife and soul mate Darlene, his parents Norris and Peggy, brothers Larry, Jerry, Jackie and still born sister Donna. He is survived by sister Debbie Perkins, children Jim (Alyssa) Pinkerton, Teresa Pinkerton, Donna (Jason) Guthrie, and Alan (Amber) Pinkerton.  Also, his grandchildren Brandon, Laine and Kyle Pinkerton. Emma Bateman, Olivia Wall, Jack, Joey and Sam Pinkerton. Daniel Guthrie, Jacobi Williams. Ashlie (Riley) Jones, Vannessa and Kaylie Pinkerton. 12 great grandchildren and many treasured nieces and nephews.

The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life on May 24, at 2 p.m. at the Copeland Hall and all are welcome to attend. There will be a taco bar, but please bring your own beverage.