Alfred Russell Tanner was born on February 9, 1932, in Nebraska to Sabin and Lillian Tanner.

At the age of six, he traveled with his family by caravan from Nebraska to Blanchard, Idaho, where he grew not only in age and experience, but also in his deep love for the area he would call home.

Al was known for his strong work ethic and his willingness to take on any project. As a young boy, he tended dairy cows before school each morning. Throughout his life, he worked in many places and professions, including Safeway grocery stores in multiple communities, before eventually finding his niche in roofing and construction, where he quite literally soared to new heights above the homes he helped build and repair.

No task ever seemed too difficult for him. He approached life with determination, patience, and quiet strength. Outside of work, Al found great joy in traveling, spending time with loved ones, and gardening. He spent countless hours caring for his beloved plants, and they rewarded him with beauty and abundance. From seedless blackberries to blueberries, strawberries, grapes, and raspberries, he delighted in sharing the fruits of his labor with friends, neighbors, loved ones, and even strangers.

That was simply who Al was, a caring man with a heart of gold, a laugh that echoed through the mountains, and a deep kindness toward people, animals, and nature.

Al lived an incredible 94 years and departed from earth on May 5th, 2026. He was a father to three children and brother to four brothers and three sisters. He also leaves behind his beloved wife Mary as well as very loved bonus children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless others whose lives were touched by his generosity and love.

We welcome you to join in celebrating his cherished life on May 30, 2026 at 1pm at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Coeur D'Alene