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In Memory

William Gaskins - Class of 1930

William Benjamin Gaskins, 92, passed away January 25, 2003 at home following a valiant battle with cancer. He was born on Dec. 22, 1910, in Montpelier, Idaho, the son of Charles Edward and Lillian McCammon Gaskins, who preceded him in death. 

He is one of eight children. He married Ruby Sophia Solum on Oct. 15, 1932, in Montpelier. They moved to Pocatello in 1952. She preceded him in death. They were married for 69 years, a testimony to their great love for each other and life. 

He enjoyed a 53-year career as a locomotive engineer for the Union Pacific Railroad. He retired as general chairman of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. 

His interests were many and varied, including family, friends, horses, traveling, hunting, fishing, and storytelling. He was a tower of strength and served as a role model to his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and to many friends. His wit and wisdom will live on through them. 

He was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church. He was also a member of the King Solomon Lodge No. 27 and the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, S.J., USA. 

He is a firm believer in God’s salvation and eternal life through the grace of Jesus Christ. 

He is survived by two children - Richard (Irene) of Philadelphia, Penn., and Diana (Bob) McLaughlin of Pocatello, five grandchildren (one deceased), and seven great grandchildren. 

Funeral services will be held Thursday, Jan. 30, 2003, at 1 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church, 202 S. Seventh Ave., with Reverend Pamela Mayes conducting. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services in the church. 

Interment will be in the Restlawn Memorial Gardens, Pocatello, with Masonic Graveside Rites. In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of William may be given to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, Fairfax and Virginia Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84104, or to the American Cancer Society. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Henderson-Cornelison Funeral Home, 431 N. 15th Ave., Pocatello.