Erica Sue (Ewing) Kirst

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Obituary for Erica Sue Kirst (Ewing)

Erica Sue Kirst (Ewing), 45, passed away peacefully at her home on September 24, 2025, in Paul, Idaho. Born in Caldwell, Idaho, and raised in the close-knit farming community of Wilder, Erica grew up with strong roots that shaped her lifelong spirit of hard work, joy, and generosity. She went on to earn her master’s degree from Boise State University and dedicated her career to teaching ESL programs—her true passion.

Erica was a devoted mother who filled her children’s lives with adventure and love. She cherished time with her children, Jacob Kirst and Ylena Kirst, taking them on countless adventures to Camp Perkins, hiking trails, camping trips, and fishing outings, creating memories they will treasure forever. As her family grew, she welcomed with love Token Kirst and Anavrin Kirst.

Erica’s zest for life was unmatched. She embraced travel, her faith in Christ, laughter, and even the thrill of a good gamble in Jackpot. Always ready to drop everything for an adventure, she traveled everywhere from Texas to Alaska—where she often joked that she may have fostered a family of bears. Known for her warmth, humor, and playful spirit, she was also famous among friends and family for her unforgettable Austin Powers impersonations.

A woman of service and community, Erica gave her time and talents to many organizations, including the Burley Children’s Museum, Burley Library, Bible study groups, and numerous community programs. She was a proud member of Delta Delta Delta, Theta Tau Chapter at the University of Idaho. She was also instrumental in helping Trinity Lutheran School establish its pre-school and early childhood education program. Most recently, she became one of only 80 people certified in “Parent Café,” sponsored by the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children and Be Strong Families, further extending her lasting impact on families and her community.

Erica’s love knew no bounds, and her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched with her kindness, laughter, and adventurous spirit. Her family and friends will miss her dearly, but they will continue to carry forward the joy and love she shared so freely.

Recently, while with her younger sister, Evonne McGuire-Long, and brother, Justin Ewing, Erica shared the song she wished to be played at her funeral: The Ecstasy of Gold by Ennio Morricone (The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly), imagining herself riding into the sunset on a new adventure.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Ernesto and Olga Oropeza, and paternal grandparents, James and Beverly Ewing.

She is survived by her parents, Elizabeth and Ronald Ewing her children Jacob Kirst and Ylena Kirst, her siblings, Evonne McGuire-Long (Cam) with children Miren, Emilia, and Ethan; and Justin Ewing (Cara) with children Agnes, Ruth, Royce, and Jane. She is also survived by her uncles Eddie Oropeza, Ernest Oropeza, Elias Oropeza, her aunts Ida and Christy Oropeza, Aunt Lori Ewing, and Aunt Shelly Parker and Dave Parker.  as well as numerous close cousins and extended family members.

A viewing for family and friends will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, at Hansen Mortuary, Rupert. Graveside services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Paul Cemetery followed by the Funeral service at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rupert at 1:00 p.m.  Memorial services will be available to livestream on Trinity's website tlcrupert.com.   After the service, all are invited to gather at the church for a meal and time for fellowship as we celebrate Erica’s life and the joy, she brought to so many. Arrangements are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.

In honor of Erica’s wishes, donations may be made to her church, or toward college funds for her children.

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