Jeffrey James Clemmer

Jeffrey James Clemmer  June 15, 1948-December 16, 2019

Jeff Clemmer, aka “Clem/Clembo” passed away peacefully in his home, after a day of skiing with friends. 

Clem was born June 15th, 1948 to John and Peggy Clemmer in Pasadena, CA.  He was the middle of three children. (Older brother, Jack and younger sister, Jill) The family went on many adventures, and the Clemmer’s encouraged their children to follow their interests.  Clem’s first interest was music.  He learned to play the piano at age five, and over the years mastered many instruments, including guitar, banjo, mandolin, trumpet, and sousaphone (aka “marching tuba”).  Jeff’s talent earned him a spot in several music programs, including the Interlochen Music Camp (Michigan), Pasadena City College Marching Band, and the University of Idaho School of Music.  Jeff often commented about his time in PCC, carrying the sousaphone in the Tournament of Roses Parade.  He stated he “nearly died huffing that load” the 5.5-mile route. 

Another adventure the family enjoyed was skiing.  Jeff learned to ski at Big Bear, Mammoth, and when the family moved to Idaho, Brundage Mountain.  Just like music, Jeff was talented on skis.  He raced throughout the Northwest and Sierra Tahoe Circuit.  Jeff met many life-long friends in the skiing community.  One of those friends was Dean Hovdey.  Dean and Jeff became close as brothers, traveling the ski circuits, tuning skis, and playing music in their off time.  When Dean met Patty, Clem quickly adopted her, too, and the three were close throughout Jeff’s life.  In 1979, Dean, Patty, and Clem partnered to open Home Town Sports in McCall, Idaho.  Jeff would help manage the ski shop.  Many locals have credited Clem with teaching techs how to properly tune and repair ski equipment.  He also was credited for earning the “Grump Cup” award, several years in a row.  Jeff was known to be a bit of a grouch, but he meant no harm.  One friend stated, “Jeff was the most kindhearted curmudgeon”.  That was an accurate description.   

Early in life, Jeff worked various jobs, including packer at Mammoth, ranch hand in New Meadows, and ski tech for many small businesses in McCall, Sun Valley, and Mammoth.  His work for the government began as a fire fighter for the Forest Service, first starting at Krassel Guard Station. Later, he was a Hotshot for the Interregional (IR) crew at Thorn Creek Fire Camp (near the base of Brundage Mountain road).  After a few years, Clem moved to Fairbanks, Alaska to assist in fire detection.  This is where Jeff found another interest: flying.  Clem obtained his pilot’s license, and thoroughly enjoyed flying his Cessna 170B between Idaho and Alaska.  After some time, Jeff was offered a position as a contractor fueling fire aircraft.  He was referred to as the “Fuels Guy” to many between Galena and Fairbanks.  Clem was most happy in Alaska.  He thought highly of the people and his co-workers in those communities.   

In the off-season, Jeff spent his winters in McCall helping Dean and Patty in the ski shop of Home Town Sports.  For many years, Clembo lived in a one room log cabin he referred to as his “hooch”.  Clem married Mary Lamarche in the winter of 1986, and became a stepdad to her son, Spencer.  Although the marriage would eventually end, Jeff and Mary would remain close and committed friends.  Spencer and Jeff also remained close.  The two shared much humor, wit, and friendship.

Late in Clem’s life, he found another interest: faith.  He became a student of the Bible, and follower of Christ.  Music and faith were a perfect combination for Jeff.  He learned to play old hymns on his guitar; writing lyrics long hand in notebooks he would reference until his last days.  Jeff often sang and played music at church.  He gave one young musician two of his guitars and another a mandolin so they could continue to grow in their faith and music.  Jeff enjoyed deep conversation with his friends concerning the Bible and philosophy. 

Jeff had many passions and interests; music, skiing, flying and faith; but what Jeff will be remembered for is his loyalty to his friends and family.  Clem was plagued with kidney stones most of his adult life.  He traveled to specialists across the country to figure out how he might overcome the stones.  Jeff never traveled alone.  One of his friends or family members was always by his side to offer any support he might need.  Clembo returned the favor. He always “showed up”.  He would moan and groan about having to travel to special events (Often he would say “THIS COST ME TOO MUCH $$!!”) but he was always there.  He’d play music at weddings and funerals.  He’d show up for birthdays and “Dow Fest”. He’d be there for surgeries and medical appointments.  He’d show up for holidays.  He’d harass us all at work.  He’d meet you at the ski lift.  

Clem taught us what it meant to be a good, loyal friend.  He was witty and could make anyone smile with his “Clem-isms”, especially ones about the tourists.  Friends like Jeff are rare.  We are all blessed to have known him and learn from him.  He will be missed. 

A memorial service will be held in Jeff’s honor (“Clem Fest”) Saturday, September 5th, 2pm, at Jeff’s place in New Meadows.  A main dish will be provided, potluck sides welcome.  BYOB, some non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.  Lawn chairs and musical instruments recommended.  Please RSVP to either Jill or Patty if you plan to attend.  (Jill Saleen: jilldpill@hotmail.com) (Patty Hovdey: dphovdey@frontiernet.net)

Online condolences may be left at www.mccallfunerals.com

Arrangements in care of McCall Funeral Home.

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