Irene Vandervegt Gibson

Irene VanderVegt Gibson, a remarkable woman known for her generosity, strength, and unwavering spirit, passed away on March 15, 2026, in Boise, Idaho. Born on June 21, 1944, in Bellflower, California, Irene’s journey through life was marked by resilience, kindness, and a deep commitment to her family and community.

Raised on a dairy in Southern California alongside her brother Corry, Irene developed a profound love for animals and the dairy way of life from an early age. This childhood experience of feeding calves planted the seed for a life deeply connected to agriculture. In 1964, she married George VanderVegt, and four years later they moved to Jerome, Idaho with their two young children, where they started a dairy together. This venture was more than a livelihood; it was a testament to Irene’s dedication and hard work.

Tragedy struck in 1982 when Irene was widowed after George’s sudden passing. Left to care for three children and manage the dairy alone, Irene faced this daunting challenge with remarkable determination and grace. Through her strong, independent, and resilient nature, she successfully took over the dairy operation, earning widespread recognition and respect within the community. Her success was celebrated with honors such as “Dairy Wife of the Year” for Idaho in 1988 and her induction into the Southern Idaho Livestock Hall of Fame. Additionally, she served as a board member of the United Dairymen of Idaho, sharing her expertise and leadership.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Irene was a woman of many passions and interests. An adventurous soul, she loved traveling the world, skiing and bowling in her younger days, and baking. She had a strong affinity for her Dutch heritage and delighted in decking out her home for holidays, sending thoughtful cards to loved ones, and spending treasured time with her grandchildren. Her love of traveling, particularly in Hawaii, and family trips to Disneyland created lasting memories filled with joy and laughter.

Irene married John Gibson in 1997, building another cherished chapter of her life until his passing in 2021. Irene remained deeply involved in church activities at the First Presbyterian Church in Jerome, Idaho, where a memorial service will be held on April 11, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. To follow, friends and family are invited to gather at Redhawk Gastropub in Twin Falls to celebrate her life.

Irene’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her children Jenise, Ray (Allison), and Steve (Kristin); her stepchildren Michael, Bob (Veronika), Steve (Rena), and Heidi (Corey); her 15 grandchildren; and her great-granddaughter. She is also survived by her brother Corry (Jane) Vanderham.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dick and Gert Vanderham; her first husband George VanderVegt; and her second husband John Gibson.

Irene VanderVegt Gibson was more than an accomplished dairy woman and a pillar of her community; she was an amazing mother and grandmother whose humility, kindness, and tireless work ethic inspired all who knew her. Her warmth, sweet disposition, and the memories of traveling, sharing tea, hearing stories, and baking cookies with her will continue to be a source of comfort and love to those left behind.

Her life embodied a class and strength that touched many, and her memory will be treasured with lasting gratitude and respect.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to:

- First Presbyterian Church; 262 E Ave A, Jerome, ID 83338

- Rising Stars Therapeutic Riding Center; PO Box 482 Twin Falls, ID 83303