Richard (Dick) Ivo Caves

Richard (Dick) Ivo Caves, 83, of Saco, a U.S. Navy veteran and rancher, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by those who loved him on Saturday, June 18, 2016. A celebration of his life, with military honors will be held on Friday, June 24, 2016 at 2 p.m. in the Saco High School Gymnasium. Luncheon will follow at Saco IOOF Hall.

Richard was born November 3, 1932 in Malta, son of Fern Ivo and Ida Mae (McEwen) Caves. He was raised in rural Phillips County, moving to Saco with his family as a child. He graduated from Saco High School in 1951.

He joined the U.S. Navy in 1952, where he enjoyed cooking on the USS Ozburn DD 846. Richard served in the Korean War along with the United Nations National Defense and was honorably discharged in 1955. He returned to Saco to continue farming and ranching, also continuing his education of veterinary science. On May 5, 1973 he married Caroline E. Kron in Valley County, Montana.

Richard served on the Saco School Board for several years. He was an avid supporter of the Saco Athletic Booster Club. He was honored to serve as Commander for the local American Legion, Saco Chapter. Richard was proud to be involved in all color guard and honor guard festivities, no matter the weather he was there sporting his old "woolly blues" United States Navy uniform.

Richard was a work hard, play hard kind of man. He loved all animals and enjoyed animal husbandry. After Richard and Caroline's son graduated, they opened their home up to foster children. He treated all 42 foster children that came onto his ranch, like his own. He was proud and honored when one of the foster children joined the U.S. Navy.

Richard was proud of his son and grandsons accomplishments and spoke highly of them. He will be remembered for his ever present smile, generous heart and his quick wit.

Survivors include his wife, Caroline; son, Robert (Rhonda) Caves, three grandsons; stepchildren, Lee (Debra) Wolfe, two children; Nyla (Les) Bush, five children; Denice Wolfe, two children; eighteen great-grandchildren; five nieces, two nephews and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Winifred Overby and brother, James Caves.

Memories of Richard and condolences to the family, may be sent to: Richard Caves Memorial, 15857 Highway 243 Saco, MT 59261.