William Leroy Gress

William L. "Bill" Gress, 72, of Twin Falls, passed away March 7, 2013 at St. Luke's Magic Valley Regional Medical Center in Twin Falls. He was born on March 17, 1940 in Hardin, MT., the son of William J. and Marie Oliver Gress. On April 12, 1961 in Helena, MT, Bill married the love of His life Margie Strickland. Together they owned and operated the "Ol' River Bridge Inn" in Columbia Falls, MT. He enjoyed playing music and entertaining his patrons. They operated the Inn for 25 years, then moving to Lake Havasu City, AZ to build the Montana Steak House. After operating that restaurant for eight years they transitioned to Twin Falls, opening another Montana Steak House. Together they operated that until Bill's passing. Bill enjoyed boating, cooking, fishing and telling stories of his escapades. He never met a stranger and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His passion and gift was his music. He played the Rhythm Guitar and Bass guitar, entertaining many throughout the years. He play in clubs with many country legends such as Merle Haggard, Ferlin Husky, and Ernest Tubbs to name only a few. Surviving are his wife of 52 years - Margie, daughters - Jeannie (David) Cheff of Columbia Falls, MT, Jacque Corbett and her companion (Jeff Burgett) of Twin Falls, Jari Jo (Kash) Nelson of Alberta, Canada, son - Robert Gress of Buhl, four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, sisters - Lilli Ann Martin, Betty Lou Armstrong and a brother Benjamin Gress. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sister Jeannie and a brother James. The family will hold a celebration of life honoring Bill's life on Monday, March 11, 2013 from 4 - 8 PM at his second home the Montana Steak House in Twin Falls. In the spring the family will hold another celebration in Columbia Falls, MT. Those who wish may share memories and condolences at www.magicvalleyfuneralhome.