Donald Gary Pachner passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on March 8, 2026, at the age of 91.

Don was born on August 5, 1934, in Oberlin, Kansas, to Joseph and Alice Pachner. In his early childhood, the family moved to Glenns Ferry, Idaho, where Don was raised and later graduated from Glenns Ferry High School in 1953.

Following graduation, Don proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country for four years as a Rocket Propellant Specialist, earning the National Defense Service Metal for serving during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam Conflict. After completing his military service, he began his college career at Idaho State University. It was there that he met and fell in love with his tutor, Camilla “Cami” Crockett. Don and Cami were married and later moved to Moscow, Idaho, where Don attended the University of Idaho and earned his degree in Civil Engineering.  Don went on to earn his professional engineering and surveying licenses, accomplishments that brought him great pride and years of well-deserved bragging rights.

Don and Cami built a life together and raised four children: Michael, Joseph, Christopher, and Rebecca. Don and Cami started their journey together in Alaska, where it was always a bit unclear if the move was to kickstart his engineering career or his hunting career.  They spent six years in the Last Frontier before moving back and settling in Mountain Home, Idaho. There, Don worked as a civilian for the U.S. Air Force for more than 24 years, contributing his expertise as a civil engineer and building a reputation for dedication and hard work.

Don was the proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.

He loved the outdoors and spent as much time as he could hunting, fishing, and enjoying nature. Don was known as a friend to everyone—always willing to lend a helping hand, share what he had, and support others in their time of need.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cami; his parents, Joseph and Alice; his brother, Everett; and many cherished friends and loved ones.

A funeral service will be held on March 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Rost Funeral Home in Mountain Home, Idaho. Interment will follow at Glenn Rest Cemetery in Glenns Ferry, Idaho, where Don will be laid to rest beside his loving wife and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Mountain Home Animal Shelter in Don’s memory.