- Date Of Birth: December 26, 1943
- Date Of Death: January 26, 2022
- State: Idaho
Julio Benardo Bilbao
December 26, 1943 ~ January 26, 2022
Julio Benardo Bilbao, of Boise, Idaho, peacefully passed away on January 26, 2022, due to complications related to Parkinson’s Disease at 78 years of age. His wife and three daughters were at his side, and he was surrounded by the thoughts and prayers of many loved ones from across the US and in the Basque Country.
Julio was born in Emmett, Idaho, on December 26, 1943, to Frank Bilbao and Frances Bicandi. Along with his older sister Dolores and younger brother Frankie, Julio grew up in Cascade, Idaho, where their parents owned and ran a boarding house and bar (The Emory Hotel and The Valley Club).
Several decades prior while attending Idaho State, Julio met his future bride and beloved wife of over 50 years, Julie Ann Egurrola. As a team, they lovingly raised three daughters, Josephine, Anita, and Amaya.
Proud of his Basque heritage, Julio was a leader in developing the first Basque Studies Program in Boise and in organizing the 1972 Holiday Basque Festival, a pre-curser to today’s Jaialdi. Julio was a strategic and dedicated Mus (Basque card game) player and spent countless Sunday nights at the Basque Center participating in tournaments. Also a tremendous athlete, Julio was named Outstanding Running Back and Most Valuable Player and was recognized with the Bishop Hunthausen Outstanding Boxer Award while attending Carroll College. Golf was one of his favorite past times, and he cherished his time on the links with friends.
Julio brought his best to every undertaking in his life, no matter how big or small. He unflinchingly met life’s challenges, including Parkinson’s, and took pride in a job well-done. Julio spoke from his convictions and values and was impeccable in his word.
Remaining to cherish Julio’s memory are his wife, Julie Egurrola Bilbao; children, Josephine Bilbao Bourke (John Henry), Anita Bilbao, and Amaya Bilbao Cromwell (Travis); grandchildren, Kenzie Cromwell, Julio Bourke and Finn Cromwell; siblings, Dolores Seielstad (George) and Frank Bilbao (Nancy); sister-in-law, Louise Egurrola Lizaso (Pete, deceased); aunt, Colleen Bicandi (Gene, deceased); nieces and nephews, Andrea Seielstad, Carl Seielstad (Cathy), Mark Seielstad, Tony Bilbao, Dan Bilbao (Hannah), Tony Lizaso (Kitty), Dan Lizaso, Carmen Boeger (Don, deceased), and Marie Lizaso (Steve); cousins, Rae Nicolona, Theresa Burkhart (Bill), Geno Anderson, Julie Driscoll, Debbie Benevides (Joe), Mitch Bicandi (Debbie), Michael Bicandi (Jane); and countless other beloved family and friends.
The family would like to thank the incredible staff at The Terraces of Boise and its Grove Memory Care for their professionalism, kindness, and compassion.
Brian Grant Foundation for People with Parkinson’s Living Inspired Lives
The Alzar School (purchased the Frank and Frances Bilbao family ranch) Valley County Young Leader Scholarship
The Basque Museum and Cultural Center
