Tonia Rae Povlsen

BURLEY – Tonia Rae Polvsen, 74, a lifelong resident of Burley, passed away Tuesday, December 26, 2023, with her loving family by her side.

She was born May 28, 1949, in Burley, Idaho, to Albert and Pearl Lowder Klauser. She attended Burley schools and graduated in 1967, receiving a scholarship in speech and drama. The following summer, Tonia worked at the Arctic Circle Drive-In. That fall, Tonia moved to Pocatello to attend Idaho State University and worked at Blocks. Some weekends she returned home to check on her mother. That is when she met Harold. They married in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on May 7, 1971, and were later sealed in the Logan Utah Temple.

Tonia’s skills gave her the opportunity to be employed at various businesses: Idaho Bank and Trust (secretary), Jensen Jewelers (credit manager), and property manager for different property owners. Tonia also worked for Life Incorporate for several years as a disability advocate. During that time she helped countless people who were struggling, disabled, or battling other life issues. Tonia also had a daycare in her home for several years. It was well known for the excellent care for the children and, within a short time, she hired extra help.

She spent her life serving others. She was a dedicated and wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, and aunt, showing unconditional love and generosity.

Tonia’s greatest love was her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her family.

Tonia is survived by her daughter, Lori Meithof; grandchildren, Mckayla, Saj, and Ethan Kawamoto, and Hailey Meithof; great-grandson, William Kawamoto; sister, Donna (Larry) Meade; and sisters-in-law, Linda (Neil) Thomas and Debbie Povlsen; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Povlsen; parents, Albert and Pearl Klauser; brothers, Saul (Albert Jr.) Klauser, and Larry Dean Klauser; her parents-in-law, Glenn and Kate Funk and Frank Povlsen; and brother-in-law, Richard Povlsen.

Tonia is greatly missed by her family and pets.

A memorial service followed by urn placement for Tonia and Harold is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Paul Pine Chapel, located in the Paul Cemetery at 573 W. 100 N. Paul, Idaho, with Bishop Lee Greer officiating.

Cremation arrangements were entrusted to the care of Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home of Burley.