Ira "Gale" Moon, a man of integrity, principle, wittiness, and compassion, finished his earthly work and passed away October 14, 2012, surrounded by the most important and cherished people in his life - his sweetheart Iva Lou, and 6 children. He will be missed, but his lessons and example are rooted in the lives of his 27 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and everyone who interacted with him and connected with him. Gale's career in education allowed him the opportunity to touch countless lives, and the ripple of care for the students, parents, and community he started so long ago has influenced the journey and experience of so many. Gale was born in Malad, Idaho, and joined the National Guard when he was 15 years old. His desire for flying led him to Albion State School in Idaho where he received his private pilot's license. He later attended BYU and graduated from Ricks College. He served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II and enjoyed his service in the Civil Air Patrol after the war. Gale met his eternal companion Iva Lou Budge and they were married July 26, 1950, in Bear River City. Later, they were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple. They worked as a support system for each other and filled their time giving to their family and others. Gale's enthusiasm for teaching is evident in the 38 years spent in the Idaho Falls school system. Gale taught social studies and Idaho history at O.E. Bell Junior High School. Most of his professional career he was a principal at Emerson Elementary and Bush Elementary. Gale spent time teaching students, but also was devoted to extra-curricular activities, especially wrestling and boxing. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Gale and Iva Lou accomplished their dream of serving an LDS mission in Columbus, Ohio. They treasured this opportunity and reflected on it together often. No matter what you called Gale - husband, daddy, father-in-law, grandpa, uncle, or Mr. Moon, he was there, with his whole heart, fulfilling his responsibilities and bringing out the best in people. We will never forget your enveloping hugs, bone-crushing handshakes, long mealtimes, good-natured teasing, and always a safe place to go. Thank you for your legacy and your love. We will carry it with pride. Gale is survived by his wife, Iva Lou (Budge) Moon, his children: Richard (Evelyn) Moon, Debbie (George) Norris, Diane Gibbs, Denise (Britt) Garrett, Dawn (Jerry) Davis, Adele (Larry) Lewis; brother, Franklin D. Moon, and sister, Cleo (Jay) Macfarlane; 27 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 20, 2012, at the Ammon North LDS Stake Center, 4363 East 17th Street, with Bishop Rod Draney officiating. The family will visit with friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Friday, October 19, 2012, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls, and from 10:00-10:45 prior to the services at the church. Interment will be in the Malad, Idaho, Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.coltrinmortuary.com.