Lon Tonks Tueller, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong dairyman, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, in Montpelier, Idaho. He was 70 years old.
Born on February 18, 1955, in Montpelier, Idaho, Lon is the son of Daren T. and Lois Tonks Tueller. He grew up in the Bear Lake Valley and graduated from Bear Lake High School, where he was an active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and earned recognition as a "Star Farmer." His early passion for agriculture led him to pursue further education at Ricks College for a year before earning a Dairy Herdsman Certificate from Utah State University.
Lon’s life work centered around his deep love for registered Holstein dairy cows, the industry and mostly the people involved. His dedication to the dairy industry was evident throughout his career. He served as president of the Idaho Holstein Association during the year Idaho hosted the national convention—a role that reflected both his leadership and commitment to excellence in dairy farming. In recognition of his contributions to the field, Lon was inducted into the United Dairymen of Idaho Hall of Fame in 2013.
Throughout his career, Lon held positions on several influential boards including the Rocky Mountain DHI Board and the United Dairymen of Idaho Board. His achievements were numerous: he received both Junior and Senior Breeder of the Year Awards and multiple Idaho Milk Quality awards. He also received a service award for hosting dairy student interns—an acknowledgment of his generosity in sharing knowledge with future generations.
Later in life, Lon found joy in serving his community as Geneva Route’s beloved school bus driver. His presence brought comfort and familiarity to many children and families over the years. He was champion for the children, especially those who may have felt marginalized.
A man of deep faith, Lon was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served faithfully in many callings including missionary service in the Indiana Indianapolis Mission, scout master, bishop, and high councilman. His powerful testimony of Jesus Christ guided every aspect of his life and left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Lon shared a beautiful life with his wife and sweetheart Effie Lucille “Lucy” Smith Tueller. He met Lucy at Ricks College and they married in the Manti Temple in 1977 after his mission. Together for 48 years, they raised a devoted family that brought him immense pride and joy.
He is lovingly remembered by his children: Stephen Jacob Tueller (Jillian Louise Browning), Effie Tueller (James “Jim” Gutierrez), Erin “Rinny” Tueller (Allan Campbell), Jessica Tueller, Mandi Weekes (Mikal Weekes), and Amy Knight (Steven Peter Knight).
Lon cherished each one of his grandchildren: Zachary L Tueller; Chayce Elizabeth Tueller; Payge Victoria “Tori” Tueller; Quinton Tueller; Lilyth Rose “Rosie” Tueller; Rogan Rey McRae; Allison Gutierrez; Paige Elizabeth Gutierrez; Isaac Gutierrez; Matthew Lindon Weekes; Lizabeth May Weekes; Jessica Lucille Weekes; Sarah Lois Weekes; Samuel Lon Weekes; and Natalie Renee Knight.
He is also survived by his siblings Rao D. Tueller (Julie Anderson) and Renee Tueller.
Lon was preceded in death by his parents, Daren T. and Lois Tonks Tueller.
His legacy lives on through his family, community service, contributions to agriculture, and unwavering faith. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bear Lake Education Foundation or the Bear Lake Valley Health Care Foundation.
Funeral services will be live streamed on Schwab Matthews Mortuary Facebook page and will begin once the funeral starts.
Viewing Friday November 28, 2025, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM Schwab - Matthews Mortuary 702 Clay St Montpelier, ID 83254
Viewing Friday November 29, 2025, 9:30 AM to 10:45 AM Geneva Ward Chapel
Funeral Service Saturday November 29, 2025 11:00 AM Geneva Ward Chapel