Gary Lee Rinehart

Gary Lee Rinehart, age 78, passed away January 29, 2026 at Serenity Transitional Care surrounded by his brothers and son. He was born March 10, 1947 in Bokchito, Oklahoma to Kenneth Rinehart and Joy (Houston) Rinehart. At the age of three Gary settled with his mother and father in Twin Falls, Idaho, the community that would remain his lifelong home

The oldest of three sons, Gary grew up with a strong sense of responsibility and family loyalty. He graduated from Twin Falls High School in 1965. Soon after, he along with his closest friend, Jim Mildon, joined the Army National Guard, where Gary proudly served for six years.

Gary attended the College of Southern Idaho, studying agriculture, and went on to farm with his first wife Vickie Larson for a few years. They were later divorced. After being injured in a motorcycle accident he worked a variety of jobs in the Twin Falls area before discovering his true calling in public service. He completed the Law Enforcement training program at CSI in 1982 and joined the Twin Falls Police Department the following year. Gary served in law enforcement for 24 years, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his community until health issues forced his retirement in 2007.

Gary later married Shannon Ross, and together they welcomed one son Garrett William, born in 1987. Though Gary and Shannon were later divorced, Garrett remained the greatest joy of his life.

Outside of work, Gary found happiness in the outdoors and the things that sparked his curiosity and passion. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, old cars and riding motorcycles – interests that brought him both adventure and peace.

Gary is survived by his son, Garrett Rinehart of Twin Falls; his brothers Ronnie Rinehart of Twin Falls and Dennis Rinehart of Boise; and his life partner and caregiver for many years, Deb Kelley of Twin Falls, as well as many fellow police officers, friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, his mother, Joy Rinehart and his father Kenneth Rinehart.

Gary will be remembered for his dedication, his quiet strength, and the steady presence he offered those who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the community he served.

At Gary’s request there will not be a funeral service, however a memorial service to honor Gary’s life and career in law enforcement will be announced at a later date.