Bradford D Byrnes

Bradford Dean Byrnes, age 89, died at home in Boise, Idaho on May 22, 2023.

Brad was born April 3, 1934 to Kenneth Byrnes and Marjorie Capps. Brad attended elementary and high school in Nebraska before moving to Illinois where he ultimately received his Bachelor or Arts in Business from Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT).

Brad was married in Bolingbrook, Illinois on February 7, 1961 to Helen Hotchkin. Brad and Helen had three children: Lynda and her husband Alan Westphal, Sheri and her husband Bill Evans, and James Byrnes.

Brad’s professional life took him through several vocations; for over 20 years he worked at IIT finally becoming the Purchasing Manager. Later Brad became a small business owner, a realtor, and a stock broker before he retired.

Brad loved to swim and golf. He was on the swim team at IIT and Brad continued to swim competitively in long distance swim races in Lake Michigan. Brad began his love affair with golf while on his high school golf team. He eventually golfed some of the country’s best golf courses as well as participating in multiple Frank Sinatra golf tournaments.

Brad’s love of travel took him across North America visiting Canada, Mexico, and every one of the 50 US states. In addition, he traveled to many countries outside of North America including Germany, Ireland, Scotland, England, Denmark, Norway, as well as Australia and New Zealand. Of all his travels, Brad was particularly fond of Italy where he visited the famous landmarks and was even able to see the Pope in Vatican City. This lifelong love of travel ultimately inspired Brad to receive his private pilot license.

He is survived by his wife Helen, and his two daughters, Lynda and Sheri. He was preceded in death by his son, James Byrnes. Brad also has four grandchildren, Jason, Breanna, Brian, and Sean, as well as multiple great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Brad had a lifelong love of animals and had many cherished dogs including his latest dog, Smoky.

Brad’s love of life, family, and friends, as well as his off-the-wall sense of humor will be missed by all who were privileged to know him.

Donations may be made in Brad’s name at the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.