Richard 'Dick' Ivo Caves

Richard "Dick" Ivo Caves, 83, of Saco, Mont., 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, at 2 p.m. in the Saco High School Gymnasium, followed by a luncheon at the Saco IOOF Hall.

He was born Nov. 3, 1932, in Malta, the 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. He 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 in veterinary science.

On May 5, 1973, he married Caroline E. Kron in Valley County, Mont. He 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. He 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.

He was a work hard, play hard kind of man. He loved all animals and enjoyed animal husbandry. After his 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.

He 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.

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

Survivors include his wife, Caroline; a son, Robert Caves and his wife, Rhonda, and three grandsons; stepchildren, Lee Wolfe and his wife, Debra, and two children; Nyla Bush and her husband, Les, and five children; Denice Wolfe and two children; 18 great-grandchildren; five nieces, and two nephews and their families.

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