Leon Ernest Klinginsmith

Leon Ernest Klinginsmith, of Caldwell, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 85, on Sunday, September 28, 2025. Leon was born on June 13, 1940, to LeRoy and Virginia Klinginsmith at the Caldwell Labor Camp.

He attended schools in the Parma, Ten Davis, and Notus area. Leon graduated from Notus High School in May of 1958. He was a charter member of the Notus FFA during his high school years. Leon married Geneta Palmer of New Plymouth in 1964. They were later divorced.

Leon farmed and ranched in the Parma-Notus area for many years. In 1988, Leon went to work for Black Canyon Irrigation as a ditch rider.

Leon married Ruth Stein of Nampa in May 1988. He gained a new family with the addition of Ruth’s children, as follows: Jeff and Rita Santiago Stein, Richard and Viviene Gilbert Stein, and Rita Stein Hassett.

Leon retired from Black Canyon to a small farm where he raised beautiful red Angus calves and entertained his grandkids and great grandkids, feeding the cows, swimming in the cow tank, and getting high on fresh air. One of Leon’s favorite things in life were making memories with all of his grandchildren: Cassie Gladdon (George), Kaylee Ann King (Austin), Cody Baker (Shayla), Harmony Penrod, Harlan Penrod, Haden Penrod (Amanda), Jonah Stein (Iyanah), Sophia Stein, Luke Stein, Faith Stein, Paul Stein (Irene); and great grandchildren: Jonathan Bennett, Kadance Tookey, Raylan Penrod, Grayson Penrod, Wyatt King, Samuel King, and Weston King.

Leon is survived by his brothers, Neal Klinginsmith (Cathy) of Parma, Idaho, and KN Klinginsmith (Helen) of Wenachee, Washington; and several very special nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Clayton and his wife, Julie Klinginsmith; and grandson, Shawn Michael.

A viewing will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 10:00-11:30 am, at Flahiff Funeral Chapel, 624 Cleveland Blvd. in Caldwell, with a graveside service to immediately follow at Canyon Hill Cemetery in Caldwell. Arrangements are under the care of Flahiff Funeral Chapel, Caldwell. (208) 459-0833