John Kendell Moats

John Kendell Moats, age 71, of Spirit Lake, Idaho, passed away on September 3, 2026. He was born on August 19, 1955, in Frankfurt, Germany, to John Kenneth Moats and Ella Mae (Bohrn) Moats. John spent most of his youth growing up in Twin Falls, Idaho, and was a proud member of the Class of ‘73. At just 17 years old, he joined the United States Navy.

John married Melanie Diane Burke in 1981, and together they shared 45 years of marriage. They built their life together in Idaho, where they raised their children. They also raised cattle in Melba and Athol, Idaho, and drove semi-trucks, transporting ammunition, explosives, jet fuel, and other materials. John had been a truck driver since he was 20 years old.

In his free time, John enjoyed scuba diving in the ocean, hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He was especially passionate about his Harley-Davidson, a 1999 custom-painted Road King featuring a sword and shield. He had been riding for the Lord ever since. John was known for his dry, sarcastic humor, and his kindness.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Melanie Moats; his children, Lucas West, Jacob Moats, and Ebonie (Jeramiah) McKee; grandchildren, Katlyn (Matthew) Ramsey, Joshua Moats, Gabirel Moats, Daymian Riley-Moats, Mason McKee, and Emery McKee; great-grandchildren, Michael, Luke, and Elena; his sister, Janet Gammon; sister-in-law, Betty Moats; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ella Moats, and his brother, Russell Moats.

A memorial service will be held at Real Life Ministries in Athol, Idaho, on October 3, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., with a reception to follow. Family and friends will have an opportunity to share stories and memories of John during the reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. The family would like to extend a special thank you to everyone who offered guidance, support, and assistance throughout John’s illness, as well as to the WOW Group at Real Life Ministries for all they did.

Arrangements are entrusted to English Funeral Chapel in Post Falls, Idaho. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit John’s tribute page at www.englishfuneralchapel.com