Maurice Leslie Syme

Maurice Leslie Syme, of Weiser, Idaho passed away on Jan. 10, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

 Maurice was born on March 2, 1928, on Monroe Creek outside of Weiser, Idaho, the third of four children born to Jack and Izetta Syme. 

 When he was four, the family moved to the farm on Sunnyside, where his parents lived for the rest of their lives.

 He attended Sunnyside School and Weiser High School before joining the United States Navy, serving as a seaman aboard the USS Tucson. From 1947 to 1949, Maurice was stationed in Adak, Alaska, and his service took him to places such as Japan and China. He enjoyed his time in the Navy, grateful for the opportunity to see parts of the world he might never have experienced otherwise.

 On March 14, 1952, Maurice married Barbara Smith. The following year, they moved to the farm where they raised their four children – Penny, Scott, Kelly, and Stuart. Times were difficult in the early years, so both Maurice and Barbara worked other jobs to support the farm. Maurice held positions at Petrashek Feed and Seed, the Oregon Portland Cement Company, and the Idaho Department of Transportation. His last position was Road Supervisor for the Weiser Valley Highway District. 

 After the passing of his mother, Izetta, Maurice and Barbara built a cabin in Pine Ridge in her honor, knowing how much she loved the mountains. The cabin became one of Maurice’s greatest joys. He loved spending time there snowmobiling, building split-rail fences and rock walls, and being surrounded by family.

 Maurice will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor, and the joy he brought to those around him.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Jack Syme and Jim Syme; sister Jean Hansberry; son-in-law Greg Thorpe; and great-grandsons Jordan Thorpe and T.J. Haun.

 Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 73 years, Barbara of Weiser; daughter Penny Thorpe of Boise; son Scott (Patti) Syme of Wilder; daughter Kelly (Herb) Haun of Weiser; son Stuart (Shawna) Syme of Weiser; 10 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.