Shelton 'Joseph' Bordelon III, 81

Shelton Joseph Bordelon III (Joe), 81, passed away Feb. 25, 2026, surrounded by family. He was born April 18, 1944, in San Diego to Sheldon Bordelon and Helen Silveria. Known as “Butch” in his younger years, Joe was raised by his mother after his father did not return to San Diego following the war. When Joe was 11, his mother passed away, and he was lovingly raised by his aunt and uncle, Beatrice and Manual Olivas. Joe attended school in San Diego before enlisting in the United States Army. He proudly served two tours in the Vietnam War as a decorated Senior Helicopter Mechanic. His military service was a source of lifelong pride.

After returning home, Joe moved to Santa Barbara, where he embraced his adventurous spirit. He took up hang gliding and enjoyed camping and gliding with friends who shared his love of the outdoors. Joe worked as a maintenance mechanic for a manufacturing company, and it was there that he met his wife, Patty. They married in 1983 and welcomed two beautiful daughters, Kathryn Renee and Andrea Mae. The family relocated to Idaho, where Joe pursued genealogy research and successfully reunited with his father in Louisiana in 1994. The family eventually settled in Coeur d'Alene. Joe cherished the beauty of Lake Coeur d'Alene and especially enjoyed watching the bald eagles.

In retirement, Joe dedicated his time to volunteer service. He was an active member of Disabled American Veterans, recently serving as chapter commander. He also volunteered at the Second Avenue Market food bank and was known for making salsa for Taco Tuesday at the Cd'A Eagles.

Joe will be remembered for his patriotism and deep love for his family and community. He is survived by his wife, Patty; daughter Renee and son-in-law Kyle Mason; daughter Andrea; and cousin Patsy Olivas.

Celebration of life will be Saturday, April 11, at 2 p.m. at Cd'A Eagles upstairs ballroom at 209 Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814. The interment will be Friday, April 10, at 11:15 a.m., at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, Wash. Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.