Kay Edgar Cossairt

Kay was born to Cecil and Carol Cossairt in Bonners Ferry, August 12, 1932. He passed away July 2, 2026.

Kay attended school in Boundary County, graduating in 1950. He joined the Air Force, spending time in Texas, Colorado, Washington and England. After the military, Kay met Barbara Turner, they married July 1, 1956. Kay worked at Brown’s Mill in Naples with his dad until it closed in 1959. He liked working on and restoring old cars, and could fix just about anything. This ability served him well as he was employed by the same Chevrolet garage up until his retirement. It’s been said he was known as “Mr. Goodwrench” around town. After retiring, Kay and Barbara spent the winters traveling south in their motorhome, spending time in the warmer desert climate with some of Kay’s siblings. In the summers, the Cossairt family reunion was something they always looked forward to.

Kay was small in stature, with a big heart and a bigger laugh. He was light hearted with a sense of humor to the end. He never, ever complained or asked for help but would lend a hand to others without question. He passed his love of the mountains and camping down to his kids, sharing stories and laughs around the campfire. Kay was a hard worker and instilled a good work ethic in his kids. There were countless nights he would be called out on the wrecker and be out half the night, but still show up to his mechanic job at 8 a.m.

Kay is survived by Marie (Tom) Sumpter, Bonners Ferry; Kent Cossairt, Bead Lake, WA.; Mark (Dianna) Cossairt, Bonners Ferry; and Sue Anne (Brad) Dockins, Maryville, TN. 13 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 3 great- great grandchildren. After Barbara passed in 2024, Kay lived alone in their home on the Northside. He was amazingly sharp, healthy, and strong, for having lived such a long, full life. The kids had to argue with him to get off his roof they were working on in the heat of the summer. He was almost offended when a crew of kids and grandkids showed up to help him split a load of firewood once, but he did appreciate their help and company. Kay believed in starting the day with a big, hot breakfast and was still fixing himself one. He enjoyed playing solitaire, watching old westerns, playing the John Wayne machine at the Kootenai River Inn, and checking out the local yard sales. He had recently attended a car show and still knew the makes and models at first sight. He was a true gem and will be missed by any lucky enough to have known him.

A Graveside Service with military honors will take place Friday, July 10, 2026 at 1:00 pm, at Grandview Cemetery, Bonners Ferry. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to American Parkinson Disease Association in honor of Kay. Make A Gift - American Parkinson Disease Association.