Rocky Todd Eller

Rocky Todd Eller, born November 14, 1963, in Twin Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, surrounded by his family. Rocky was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, coach, and educator whose life was defined by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering love for the people he cherished most.

Rocky was the son of Willa Gertrude Eller and Russell Loraine Eller, and grew up in Kimberly, Idaho, alongside his brothers. His passion for sports, teamwork, and community was shaped early in life while working with his dad in the bean silos—lessons in hard work, grit, and loyalty that stayed with him forever.

Rocky attended Kimberly High School, where he was known not only for his athletic talent but for the kind of friend everyone wanted in their corner. Younger kids across the Magic Valley looked up to him, drawn to his natural ability, sportsmanship, and kindness. He lettered his freshman year on the varsity basketball team and, as a senior, led his team with 61 points across four district games. Football brought its own legacy—Rocky played on the last Kimberly team to reach the state championship game until just this past year.

A gifted athlete, Rocky continued his football career at Columbia Basin Community College. The discipline, camaraderie, and competitive spirit he carried through college became the foundation of his future coaching career.

Rocky met Mauna on the softball field, where a spark of humor and shared love for sports grew into a lifelong partnership. Their connection was easy, joyful, and rooted in the way they understood each other. Mauna admired Rocky’s drive, his loyalty, and the way he made everyone around him feel seen. They were married on August 7, 1993, in Twin Falls, walking out to Take Me Out to the Ballgame—a perfect reflection of their story and the life they built together. Their marriage was filled with laughter, teasing, teamwork, and a deep devotion that carried them through every chapter.

Together, Rocky and Mauna raised two sons, Sam and Ryan, who were the center of Rocky’s world. His life revolved around his boys. He coached them in baseball, basketball, and football, spending countless evenings and weekends at practices, games, and tournaments. Most of Rocky and Mauna’s free time was spent traveling for baseball, cheering from the sidelines, and celebrating every milestone of their sons’ athletic journeys.

Rocky’s most joyful moments came with his grandchildren, Scarlett (6) and Terex (4). Rocky had always hoped for a little girl, and when Scarlett arrived, his heart was full. Whether playing in the splash pad, shooting Nerf guns, having his hair brushed, or letting the kids bury him under blankets, Rocky never missed a beat. He was a proud grandfather who never missed a single basketball or T‑ball game. His presence—steady, loud, loving—was a constant source of encouragement for his babies.

Rocky took great pride in his work as the Athletic Director and Pass Room Teacher at O’Leary Middle School, as well as in his many coaching roles throughout the community. You could always find him on the sidelines coaching, cheering, or out on the baseball field. His influence reached far beyond the classroom and the field, touching the lives of countless students and athletes who saw him as a mentor, role model, and friend.

On January 21, 2022, Rocky was diagnosed with colon and liver cancer. His first concern was simple and pure—he wanted to hold his grandson, who was just six days old. When he returned home and held both of his grandbabies, he said he was going to give this one hell of a fight. And he did. Rocky fought cancer fiercely for four and a half years, undergoing surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Through it all, he faced every challenge with courage, humor, and determination. Dr. Scarlett—his in‑home doctor—brought him endless comfort. Whether brushing his hair or lathering lotion on his feet, hands, legs, and arms, Rocky welcomed her care with open arms and a smile.

Rocky is survived by his sweetheart, Mauna; his sons Sam and Ryan (Natalie); his grandchildren Scarlett and Terex; his brothers Russ and Gary (Janet); his sister Dixie (Willard); and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Willa, his brother Larry, sister-in-law Vicki, brother-in-law John Hohnhorst, and his mother-in-law June Casper.

Rocky’s family would like to thank the outstanding staff at Saint Luke’s, Saint Luke’s Cancer Center, University of Utah Hospital, and The Huntsman Cancer Institute. Their compassion, patience, and support made Rocky feel like family.

Rocky’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched—as a coach, a teacher, a father, a grandfather, and a friend. His family will forever remember his laughter, his smartass comments, his dedication, and the way he made every gathering brighter simply by being there.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, August 5th, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Rosenau Funeral Home, 2826 Addison Avenue East, Twin Falls. Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, August 6th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Roper Auditorium, 1615 Filer Ave. East, Twin Falls. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, 2296 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls.

Memorial contributions may be made to the O’Leary Middle School Athletic Department,

2350 Elizabeth Blvd., Twin Falls, ID 83301.