Ray August Milks, 88

Ray August Milks passed away Oct. 21, 2022, at the age of 88. Ray is survived by his children Raymond A. Milks (Laura) of Rathdrum, Randy Milks (Pam) of Rathdrum, Roy Milks (Angela) of Spirit Lake, Rose Adams (Ted) of Spirit Lake and Roxanne Plummer of Coeur d'Alene. He also had four children from a previous marriage to Cleona Smith: Judy Milks, Nancy Milks, Bobby Milks and Sonny Milks — no further information is available. He is preceded in death by Mary Symons Milks (wife) and Ricky Milks (son).

Grandchildren include, Raechel Milks, Branden Milks, Roy Amrine, Cortsan Milks, T.J. Koski, Shanda Milks, Angie Freeman Davis, Tina Carey, Zachary Milks, Christa Mock, Patrick Plummer, Jeff Plummer, Justin Plummer, Mary Milks, Nicholas Webb, Missy Steele, Michaela Milks, Tieara Best and Brooke Heki. He also is survived by numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Ray was born Feb. 6, 1934, in Glendive, Mont., to William Henry Milks and Cornelia Freseman. He had nine siblings; Arthur, Cornelia, Al, Irene, Audrey, Rose, Betty, William Jr. and Marjorie. Ray and his siblings were placed in an orphanage at a very young age and he lost contact with almost all of them until much later in their lives.

He enlisted in the Army at the age of 17, where he earned two Purple Hearts in the Korean War and was honorably discharged Aug. 6, 1954. He resided in Seattle after the Army, and then in 1959, he found his way to North Idaho, where he met and married Mary Symons Milks (deceased Feb. 4, 1998). He later married Wilma Louise Ellison (also deceased).

Ray had many different jobs throughout his life. His favorite being his time working at Playland Pier. Other jobs included, mining, lumber mills and driving truck for local potato farmers. Later in life he enjoyed working for Lakeland School District as a crossing guard.

In his younger years, he traveled and competed in numerous Rodeos. He enjoyed fishing, camping, playing cards and BINGO at the local senior center. He was quick to make friends wherever he went and will be missed dearly by many.

Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 at Yates Funeral Home at 373 E. Hayden Ave, Hayden, Idaho 83835. Potluck to follow at Yates Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the local VA would be appreciated.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.