Joshua James Jackson

Joshua James Jackson, 45, of Boise, Idaho, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, surrounded by his closest family and friends.

While his departure leaves an unfillable space in the hearts of those who knew him, his legacy of laughter, hard work, and adventure will live on.

Josh was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, on April 19, 1979, to his loving parents, James and Londa (Underwood) Jackson. From an early age, it was clear that Josh was destined to build something great —whether it was friendships, a thriving business, or a backyard bonfire big enough to raise a few eyebrows.

A graduate of Galesburg-Augusta High School, Josh continued his education at Kalamazoo Valley Community College before heading west to Idaho in 2005 with two friends and a dream. That dream became Grizzly Construction, LLC, a company built on sweat, determination, and probably a few choice words when things didn’t go as planned. Shortly after moving to Idaho, Josh met Leslie Engle.

After four years of friendship (and possibly some stubborn hesitation on his part), Josh finally realized Leslie was the love of his life and decided to make a move. The two were married on April 6, 2012, in Boise, Idaho, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a beautiful, chaotic home raising four wonderful children: Audrey (Escobar) Gravette, Otto, George, and Emmett Jackson. Josh was happiest outdoors—camping, grilling, boating, playing disc golf, or coaching football. Whether it was a backyard barbecue or cheering on his kids at wrestling, football, and basketball games, Josh always brought energy and passion to everything he did. His love for his family was unwavering, and he made sure they knew it—through big bear hugs, endless support, and those infamous dad jokes that made everyone groan (but secretly laugh).

He is survived by his loving wife, Leslie (Engle) Jackson; his daughter, Audrey (Escobar) Gravette (Isaiah); his three sons, Otto, George, and Emmett Jackson; his father, James “Jimmy” Jackson (Laura); and his sister, Linsey Jackson (Mallory, Nakhia, and Kalani). He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Londa Jean (Underwood) Jackson.

A memorial service will be held at Alden-Waggoner Funeral Home, 5400 Fairview, Boise Idaho, on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 1pm. A reception will follow at Vineyard Boise Christian Fellowship, 4950 N. Bradley St, Garden City, Idaho, 83714, where we can share stories and a bite to eat.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Joshua Jackson’s GoFundMe to help support his family during this difficult time.

Josh was a man who worked hard, loved fiercely, and laughed often. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories of his bear hugs, quick wit, and the way he made even the simplest moments feel special. While he may have hung up his toolbelt for the last time, his legacy will continue in every project he built, every life he touched, and every joke that still makes us laugh. Rest easy, Josh. You were one of a kind.