Johnny Delvin Keppinger

In Loving Memory of Johnny Delvin Keppinger December 8, 1946- February 27, 2025 It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Johnny Delvin Keppinger on February 27th , 2025. Born on December 8th, 1946, in Indian Valley, Idaho. John Attended Cambridge High School, where he enjoyed playing basketball and football until an ankle injury shifted his focus to other pursuits. He was an active member of 4-H and FFA, showing steers and fostering a deep connection to agriculture. Following high school, he furthered his education at Tresure Valley Community College, where he continued to build a foundation for his future. His passion for farming and wildlife shaped much of his life. Farming was not just John’s livelihood but also his joy. He spent countless hours harvesting wheat, bailing, and stacking hay alongside his nephew, T.J. Toomey, and his father, Clifford Keppinger. Whether on the combine or the tractor, John and T.J. worked tirelessly, embodying teamwork and dedication to the land. Alongside his wife, Helen, whom he shared 44 years of marriage, John create a legacy of conservation and stewardship, building 40 ponds, planting over 20,000 trees, and earning the prestigious: “Conservationist of the year” award, presented by Governor Cecil D. Andrus. In 1995, John sold the farm and moved to Ontario, Oregon, where he became a manager for R.D. Offutt/Ore-Ida in the potato storage services division for over 20 years. John also shared a love of trap shooting with Helen, winning hundreds of belts buckles and trophies for his skill and was inducted into the Idaho Trapshooters Hall of Fame in 2012. His passion for trap shooting extended to reaching his entire family the sport, passing down his love and expertise to future generations. He was especially proud of his granddaughter Shelby Kaplan, who continued his legacy by joining the shooting team at the University of Arizona. Later in life, John discovered a passion for drag racing, a hobby he enjoyed with his grandchildren, Emily Coltrin and Tyler Sasser. Behind the wheel of his iconic ’71 Vega, John achieved great success, including track champion at Firebird Raceway- a testament to his determination and skill on and off the track. John was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Irene Keppinger, He is survived by his former wife, Helen Keppinger; his two daughters, Rachel Birr and Liz Mcleod and spouse (JJ McLeod); his grandchildren, Shelby Kaplan and her spouse (Jake Kaplan), Emily Coltrin, Tyler Sasser; his great grandchildren, Johnny (name sake) Kaplan and Carter Kaplan; his sister, Beverly Toomey, and her spouse, (Tim Toomey); his nephew, T.J. Toomey and spouse (Barb Toomey); and his nieces, Whitni Grove and spouse (Zac Grove) and Kinli Mouser and spouse (Josh Mouser). Johns’ life was one of family, community, and devotion to the natural world – a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew. Celebration of life to be held spring 2025 In Lieu of flower please donate to the Idaho Shotgun Sports Museum, Boise Gun Club 2350 E Kuna Mora RD Kuna, ID 83534