Former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne Honored with Lying in State Ceremony at Capitol
Former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne was honored with a lying in state ceremony at the Idaho Capitol, following his death last month at the age of 74 after a long battle with cancer. The ceremony took place on May 15, 2026, where Kempthorne's flag-draped casket was greeted by family, friends, and former staffers. Members of the Idaho State Police, Idaho National Guard, and the U.S. Navy carried his casket to a temporary stand near the replica of the Liberty Bell. The event included a 19-gun salute and a flyover by two A-10 Warthogs from Gowen Field. Eulogies were delivered by all three living governors, including Butch Otter and current Governor Brad Little, who praised Kempthorne's warmth and kindness. U.S. Senator Jim Risch highlighted Kempthorne's support for the military and his efforts in aiding endangered Americans abroad. The ceremony also featured a performance of 'Amazing Grace' by former state Senator Cherie Buckner-Webb.