Torrance Alfred McAlvain

Torrance “Torry” Alfred McAlvain, 61, passed away on November 12, 2024, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched and the community he loved. A man of extraordinary strength and integrity, Torry was a natural protector and problem-solver who faced every challenge with an unwavering determination, tenacity and zest for life.

Born on November 28, 1962, in Sebastopol, California, to Doug and Serena McAlvain, Torry grew up with a deep sense of loyalty and purpose that shaped every aspect of his life. The process of moving the small, family construction business through Council, ID to Boise began the roots and cultivation of his strong work ethic, leadership skills and passion for excellence that would define his life. He graduated from Capital High School in 1981.

Torry took over the reins of McAlvain Construction from his parents more than 20 years ago, starting the process of transforming the business into the McAlvain Group of Companies. Through his visionary leadership, he continuously expanded, shaped and molded the company, providing focused and diversified construction services that changed the landscape of not only the Treasure Valley but communities across the Northwest. His dedication to quality and innovation left an enduring impact on the industry and region, creating projects that reflected his meticulous nature and unwavering drive for excellence. He created countless career opportunities for his “McAlvain Family” and his generosity to untold many will never be forgotten. The planning for the 3rd Generation of McAlvain Construction leadership was developed as he worked alongside his lifelong friend and business partner Chuck Graves for the last 20 years. The torch has been passed to current President and his eldest son, Torry Jr., who is rooted in the same principles that guided and drove both his father and grandfather. Taylor McAlvain, his youngest son, has just recently graduated from the University of Utah and has started his journey with the family business.

A true pillar of the Boise community, Torry was known for his dedication to improving the lives of others. Whether supporting local causes, serving on Governor appointed state industry boards or mentoring those around him, Torry left an enduring legacy. He is a past President of the Idaho AGC, President of the Bishop Kelly Foundation Board and Knights of the Gridiron. Most recently he was appointed to the Idaho State Building Authority Board. His generosity extended to multiple charitable causes, his KTMAC transitional sobriety homes and numerous community programs.

Torry’s love for football was cultivated by his highly active engagement in coaching his sons. This transferred naturally to a deep commitment to the Boise State Football Program. His leadership within the Bronco Athletic Association extended far beyond just financial support. His fingerprints can be seen all over the program while leaving an indelible mark on their athletic facilities. McAlvain projects included, just to name a few, the Caven Williams Indoor Practice Facility, DeChevrieux Field, North and South Endzone Stadium and Scoreboard Replacements, Dona Larson Park and of course numerous replacements of our beloved blue turf. His passion for the sport was a defining part of his life and driven by the excellence that defined him.

Torry was a man of many talents and loved all aspects of the outdoors. From shooting ground squirrels to chasing the largest Brown Bears on the planet, his hunting adventures spanned the globe from Argentina, Russia, Alaska to Africa. His fondest memories were from time spent in Hells Canyon with his dad in their jetboat and hunting with his loved ones on the family ranch near Riggins. This decades-long family hunting adventure was witness to his transition from Son to Father to Grandfather. This special McAlvain tradition will live on honoring both him and his father.

He cherished the time he spent in McCall, where he created countless memories surrounded by those he loved. He also had a deep passion for Golf and could often be found on the Whitetail Club course playing 36 holes in a day. Known for his fun-loving nature, the “Hurricane” thrived on these moments spending time with the people that meant the most to him.

Torry’s humor was brought to light from the most challenging moments to the simplest family times. From accidentally setting his friend DH Moss’s hill on fire to lovingly tormenting his children, his stories and antics were legendary, leaving behind laughter and cherished memories.

He was a man of loyalty, integrity, and passion—driven to excellence in all he did, never making excuses, willing to help others and always striving to do what was right. Though he would let you stumble to learn your own lessons, Torry was always there to pick you up. He was, as his closest friends and family described him, the most loveable and softest “Hardass” ever. He always balanced discipline with a deep well of love and care.

Torry’s strength, humor, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right, even when it did not benefit him, will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. He was the strongest person we knew, a cornerstone of the Boise community, and a visionary leader whose impact will be felt for generations. His presence will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

Torry is survived by his mother Serena, his beloved wife Kimberly; his children Brandie (Jason), Torry Jr. (Jillian), Taylor, and Ayden; his grandchildren Leighton, Collette, Aria, Crüe, and Skyla; and his siblings Tony McAlvain (Maureen), Tuesday Yaka (Clinton) and Tonyah Lee. He is preceded in death by his father Doug. All have been instilled in his values of love and strength of family, hard work, integrity, and perseverance. He cherished them all and brought him immense joy and pride.

A celebration of Torry’s life will be held December 3rd at 10:30 a.m. located at Cathedral of St. John’s in Boise, ID. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations made to the Charity of their choice in honor of his legacy of giving back.

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