John Francis Gerard Bettinger — beloved husband, father, Papa, and lifelong instigator of laughter — took his final bow on October 27, 2025, at his home in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He was 58 years old, though his sense of humor never aged a day.

Born on March 2, 1967, in Ojai, California, John was the ninth of fourteen children born to Patricia ("Pat") and James ("Jim") Bettinger. Alongside his thirteen siblings — Anne, Mike, Mary, Dorothy, Gerard, Sharon, Jim, Joe, Teresa, Richard, Linda, and Matt— John grew up in Eagle, Idaho, where the Bettinger household overflowed with equal parts noise, love, and mischief. It's said that growing up in a family that big either makes you quiet or loud; John never stood a chance at the first option.

At a young age, John met the love of his life, Tamra ("Tammy") Ann Rhodenbaugh. They married on August 9, 1986, beginning a 40-year adventure that was, by all accounts, filled with laughter, karaoke, and a bit of friendly chaos. Together they raised three children; Britney Anne, Justin Aurthur (Treana), and Crysta Jean (Troy), who inherited their dad's quick wit, loyal heart, and his knack for telling stories that grew taller each time they were told.

John was born with a heart condition that required numerous surgeries throughout his life, but anyone who knew him knows his heart was never a weakness — it was his greatest strength. His grit and determination carried him through every challenge, and his humor made the rest of us forget there was ever a reason to worry.

A natural salesman and dedicated provider, John built a successful career in outside sales and management. But his proudest role was being "Papa" to his nine grandchildren: Mady, Jake, Bentley, Riley, Blake, Harper, Rozlynn, Braelynn, and Eden. His grandkids adored his larger-than-life personality and his endless supply of jokes — some better than others, all delivered with (almost) perfect timing. After his family, John's second love was golf – not that he was headed for the PGA or anything, but he sure practiced like he was.

Weekends at the Bettinger house were legendary: football on the TV (go Titans!), music in the background, a cold beer in hand, and John at the center of it all — laughing, storytelling, singing into a karaoke mic, and making sure everyone left with a full heart (and stomach). John's laughter was contagious. His love was fierce. His presence was unforgettable.

He is survived by his second parents, his in-laws, John and Sandee Rhodenbaugh, devoted wife Tammy; their children Britney, Justin, and Crysta; his nine grandchildren; his many siblings, nieces and nephews; and countless friends (many from the Idaho Falls Elk's Lodge #1087) who are still smiling at something funny or off-the-wall he said last week. To know John was to laugh — loudly, often, and usually at something slightly inappropriate.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Pat and Jim Bettinger, and brothers Jim and Richard.

His family takes comfort knowing that somewhere in Heaven, there's a karaoke mic in one hand, a cold beer in the other, and John is already making everyone laugh.

Celebration of life will be held at 3:00 p.m., November 22, 2025, at the Idaho Falls Elks Lodge, 640 E. Elva. Cremation is under the care of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls. Condolences may be sent to www.coltrinmortuary.com.