Kenneth Palmer Staples, 80, of Ammon, passed March 22, 2012 at home in the arms of his sweetheart Rachel. He was under the care of Hospice of Eastern Idaho. He was born February 15, 1932, in Goshen, Idaho the son of Joseph Levi and Ada Palmer Staples. Ken was raised in Goshen and Firth and graduated from Firth High School. After High school Ken joined the US Navy during the Korean War. Ken was a farmer, and owned his own gas station in Buhl, Idaho. He moved to California where he enjoyed being a purchasing agent for Natkin & Co and later he worked at Les Shamrock Heating and Cooling. He returned to Idaho to work on a farm in Jerome. Ken came back to the Idaho Falls area and began a successful toner refilling business. He retired and moved to Kooskia, Idaho in 1996. Ken married Florence Arlene Fralick. Together they had 3 sons. They were later divorced. Ken absolutely loved living along the Clearwater River in Kooskia, Idaho. Nature was close to his heart. The pines and the quaintness was very nurturing to his mind and soul. His companions Dakota, and Shanee (his dogs) brought him a lot of joy. He loved God, and his country, and was a patriot who believed in individual rights and freedom. Ken loved to listen to and dance to music, and to read, but most of all he loved doing anything at all as long as he had his wife Rachel by his side. He set an example for love of God, family and country. He taught his sons good work ethics, to be independent, and to always keep a good sense of humor. He was an excellent example of how to cherish love in marriage with Rachel who meant the world to him, and he to her. Ken is survived his wife Rachel (Karla Fouts Croft) Staples of Ammon; children, Rick Staples (Alyce) of Hurricane, Utah; Kurt Staples (Sheenah) of Tacoma, WA; stepchildren, Jason Croft (Debbie) of Idaho Falls, Jennifer Howard (Tim) of Vancouver, WA, Kent Croft (Stephanie) of Iona, Karen Hoag (Scott) of Iona, Brian Croft (Kimmi) of Iona, and Brent Croft (Michelle) of Idaho Falls; 35 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren. Ken was preceded in death by his first wife Arlene and their son Mike. At Ken's request a private party will be held in his honor at a later date. The family would like to thank all those who gave their support and help during these difficult times. Bless you James for the dedication and friendship you gave to Ken and Rachel. Condolences may be sent online at www.coltrinmortuary.com