POCATELLO, Idaho -- The family of the late Roger Benton Humberger of Pocatello has made a combined contribution of $60,000 to the Edson Fichter Community Fishing Pond to be built in Pocatello.

The Humberger family, namely cousin Jerry Humberger of Salmon and his children Sherry and Cindy, Diane Humberger of Twin Falls (wife of Roger’s late cousin Gilbert) and their children, Todd, Shawn and Lori, honored Roger’s wishes and made the donation in his name. A pavilion will be built at the fishery in Roger’s memory.

In addition to the donation by the Humberger family, a memorial fund had been set up in Roger’s name for those who wanted to make donations to the pond. That fund generated an additional $1100 for the construction of the pond.

Roger, a chemist for over 40 years with the JR Simplot Company, was an avid angler. Before his passing, he had expressed his desire to donate $60,000 to the fishing pond so that the youth and families in the community would have a special place to enjoy an activity he himself cherished, according to close family friend, Stacie Gebo of Pocatello.

“Though Roger was passionate about his work, fishing was one of Roger’s favorite respites,” Gebo said.

Fundraising for the Edson Fichter Community Fishing Pond has been underway since a special fundraising committee was established in March of this year

“The community support for the fishing pond has been tremendous, and we thank all those who have contributed to the fundraising effort thus far,” says Jennifer Jackson, regional conservation educator for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. “Now, add the extremely generous donation from the Humberger family, and the dream of a community fishing pond has become a reality almost overnight. Fish and Game and the fishing pond fundraising committee are truly grateful.”

Construction of the fishing pond is set to begin this fall at the Edson Fichter Nature Area in south Pocatello. The 3-acre pond will be approximately 15 feet deep and will be stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and bass. Site amenities will include fishing docks, a perimeter trail, a pavilion, picnic areas and benches.