Gerhart Henry Maas

Gerhart Henry Maas, 97, passed away at his home in Moyie Springs on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Graveside services will be held on August 31, 2024 at 11:00 am at the Porthill Cemetery in Porthill, Idaho.

Gerhart was born on January 21, 1927 in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to Fred and Mollie Maas. Gerhart was raised on the family farm where he helped his father with the daily chores as a child. Gerhart attended grade school at the Sheridan School and high school in Bonners Ferry.

Gerhart served in the US Army from 1945 until 1947 and was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal and Victory Medal. After leaving the military he returned home to Bonners Ferry and was employed at the Kootenai Valley Creamery. Through this employment Gerhart met the love of his life, Marva Maas, and they were married on November 1, 1952, and enjoyed 63 years together. There were four children born to this union.

Gerhart continued his love for farm life by raising beef cattle and pigs with his wife Marva on their farm on the Maas Loop Road. You would often find dad and mom out in the fields working together doing what they loved best. Gerhart loved spending time with his family. He was active in helping his children with their 4-H animal projects.

As well as farming, Gerhart worked for Boundary County Road and Bridge for a short time and then he became employed by the Moyie River Lumber Company and Louisiana Pacific for 37 years as a carrier operator. After his employment with LP, Gerhart continued to work on his farm and also work for Boundary County Hops, Figgins Farm and Mike Haines.

Gerhart was a member of the American Legion Post 55. He also served on the Boundary Community Hospital Board and Boundary County Planning and Zoning Board.

Gerhart is survived by his children, Marvin “Spike” (Peggy) Maas, Russell (Cindy) Maas, Tracie (Delton) Isaac, and daughter-in-law Tracey Maas, and his sister Sharon Wiseman, 14 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Marva Maas, son William M. Maas, brothers Alvin Maas, Bill Maas, Carl Maas and sister Dorothy Friedly.

The family would like to thank Eden Health for their exceptional care and kindness they extended to Gerhart. Dad always looked forward to their visits and he was very thankful to have them as part of his care givers. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be sent to Eden Health in Sandpoint, Idaho.

Gerhart was a kind hearted gentle soul that will be greatly missed by family and friends.