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Honoring Dirk Kempthorne: Lying in State Ceremony | ktvb.com.BOISE, Idaho — A final ride to the Idaho State Capitol and a military flyover marked a day of remembrance Friday as state leaders, family members and community residents gathered to honor former Idaho Gov.Dirk Kempthorne.As A-10 Warthogs soared over the Capitol, Kempthorne’s casket rested at the center of the Rotunda, surrounded by mourners paying their respects.Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and reflecting on Kempthorne’s legacy.“Welcome to the Capitol of Light as we honor one of its greatest stewards, the Honorable Governor Dirk Kempthorne,” McGrane said.Kempthorne served as Boise mayor, U.S.senator, Idaho governor and later U.S.secretary of the Interior.Speakers throughout the ceremony emphasized that while his résumé was extensive, his leadership style left the deepest impression.Former state Sen.Chuck Winder acknowledged the grief shared across the state while encouraging reflection on Kempthorne’s life.“Even though each of us here this morning are feeling a deep sense of loss and grief, we can all be assured of Dirk’s final victory over illness and death,” Winder said.Idaho Gov.Brad Little told those that Kempthorne’s influence reached far beyond the offices he held.“Titles never defined him,” Little said.“What people remember most about him was how he led.Dirk led with optimism, he led with civility, and he led with integrity.” Friends and colleagues described Kempthorne as both larger than life and deeply personal.Former Idaho Gov.Butch Otter shared stories illustrating Kempthorne’s humor and humanity, recalling how Kempthorne often introduced colleagues with playful character descriptions.Otter compared Kempthorne to fictional and cultural figures known for moral conviction, including Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird and actor Jimmy Stewart, saying Kempthorne embodied strength, principle and a commitment to doing what was right.Throughout the ceremony, speakers emphasized Kempthorne’s devotion to service members and veterans.Retired Maj.Gary Sayler recalled Kempthorne personally greeting and sending off soldiers deploying to Iraq.“He greeted and said goodbye to every single soldier who boarded an airplane for Iraq, regardless of the time of the day or whether they were from Idaho or another state supporting the 1/16 Brigade,” Sayler said.Speakers also highlighted Kempthorne’s advocacy for the Idaho National Guard, his efforts to bring the Blue Angels air show to Boise and his support for the USS Idaho submarine program.Alongside public achievements, the ceremony focused on Kempthorne’s faith and family.Jim Risch offered condolences to Kempthorne’s wife, Patricia, and their family.“Vicki and I give you our condolences.We had good times over the years and sincerely appreciate your friendship,” Risch said.The service included scripture readings, personal tributes and musical performances, concluding with the song “Here We Have Idaho,” echoing through the Capitol rotunda.Otter closed his remarks with a reflection on loss and legacy: “Death is not turning out the lights; it’s extinguishing the lantern because the dawn has come.” The state’s longtime motto, Esto Perpetua, meaning “Let it be perpetual”, served as a fitting farewell to a leader many said helped shape modern Idaho through decades of public service.