Richard Alan “Dick” Juvik fell into the arms of Jesus at his home on April 27, 2020, after an extended illness. He was born on November 16, 1948, to Harold Juvik and Marilyn Volk. Spending most of his youth in Great Falls, he graduated from Rudyard High School in 1967.
Dick enlisted in the U.S. Navy on November 8, 1967, attending boot camp in San Diego, followed by electrician’s school at Naval Station Great Lakes. He was assigned to the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt aircraft carrier CVA 42 on the east coast. While the Roosevelt was in Mayport, Florida for a shakedown cruise, readying for a Mediterranean cruise, he exchanged papers with another sailor to serve as an Electrician’s Mate on the USS Hancock aircraft carrier CVA 19 on the west coast. In September 1968, Dick flew from San Francisco to Guam and then to Danang, Vietnam, where he boarded a mail flight out to the Hancock, 20 miles offshore. Dick served the better part of three West Pac Tours, each for seven months in duration as the Hancock provided airstrikes for the war.
It was that handsome young sailor, home on leave in Great Falls, who caught the eye of a 15-year-old girl. For 2 ½ years, a letter romance ensued. On his third tour, as the ship was readying to deploy, he learned of his father’s death back home in Great Falls. After his father’s funeral, he served out his hitch, “riding herd on guys that went AWOL or missed their ships.” Dick discharged from the Navy on June 1, 1971, and after picking up his gear from the Hancock in San Francisco, met his fiancée Linda in Denver for their wedding.
Dick married the love of his life, Linda I. Meek, on June 12, 1971. The most beautiful story of love, grace, and care followed, and this year they would have celebrated their 49th anniversary. They made their permanent home in the Helena valley, where Dick hand built a beautiful log home on 5 acres for his family. Dick and Linda tried for several years to conceive a child, and by the grace of God were able to adopt a newborn, their son David Lee in 1975. He was the first of three miracles. God answered their prayers, as they were able to conceive their second son, Joseph Robert (J.R.) in 1977, and again with their daughter, Lisa Diane who completed the family in 1980. Dick loved his family deeply and worked hard to support them. He served as a Kessler School Trustee from 1988-1991. Dick loved spending time outside and went through many phases. First big game hunting, which kept his family fed, then on to bird hunting with his French Brittany, Bandit, and finally relaxing on the water walleye fishing. He enjoyed time in his shop and always had several projects going on at once. He had a use for everything, if not today, someday.
Dick was a master electrician, serving the Helena community for 38 years. He worked for John Allen at Allen Electric, until John’s death, and then joined forces with four others and opened Action Electrical and Service. He always enjoyed a cold glass of ice tea after work, which in later years was replaced with a whiskey ditch. He became sole owner in 2004, before retiring in 2010.
In 2012 Dick and Linda rode their Harley Davidson Trike in the Run for the Wall motorcycle caravan to Washington, D.C., held in conjunction with Rolling Thunder’s demonstration ride to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This ride takes place to honor our fallen armed forces members, and in part, pays tribute to America’s prisoners of war and those who are missing in action. On the ride back, Dick knew they needed to bring more awareness home to Montana. That ride changed his life and sparked a passion for helping families of fellow veterans. They were able to make the journey a second time in 2015.
Dick and Linda were instrumental in initiating House Bill 211 for the flying of POW/MIA flags at specific government buildings in Montana. Through their dedication, they helped designate Route 287 from Helena to West Yellowstone as the Montana POW/MIA Memorial Highway. They worked with the City of Helena and the American Legion Post #2 to place a “Chair of Honor” at Kindrick Legion Field, located in the grandstands behind home plate. Montana Ride to Remember followed, as an annual recognition ride, held the third Saturday in August, honoring the 53 POW/MIA from Montana. The desire to support the ride, allowed Dick and Linda along with a handful of dedicated volunteers to found the Montana POW/MIA Awareness Association. Dick proudly served two terms as president, and then as board chair. He took the lead in flying 53 POW/MIA flags from dawn until dusk on certain military and veteran holidays along the Helena end of the POW/MIA Memorial Highway. These flags are embroidered with the name, branch of service and area of conflict, to honor and remember Montana’s missing. It was an honor for Dick to stand hundreds of flag lines for our veteran’s funerals.
In 2014 Dick was appointed by Governor Steve Bullock as the Montana Board of Veterans Affairs “at-large” veterans’ representative. Dick was a 30-year member of The American Legion and served as Lewis and Clark Post #2 commander from 2014-2015. Dick was awarded Legionnaire of the Year in 2014 in recognition of his outstanding leadership and service. He was recognized in 2016 by Governor Bullock, receiving the Serve Montana Governor’s Office of Community Service Award. Dick was also a recent member of VFW Post 1116.
Dick was a 33-year member of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Parish, serving on the pastoral and finance councils, and as a Eucharistic minister. He could often be found in the kitchen, making coffee and visiting with his church family. He always arrived early, so no one would sit in “his” chair.
Dick is survived by his wife, Linda, their spoiled 14 ½ year old dachshund Copper, and their three children all from the Helena area. Dave (Tami) Juvik, their children Kaitlyn and Hayden; J.R. (Denise) Juvik, their children Jace, Brynn, and Laryn; and Lisa (Scott) Leland, and their children Jessie and Miles. His dear mother, Marilyn Brass of Helena; sister Marlie (Chuck) Loranz of Bozeman; brother Scott (Deb) Lindsay of East Helena; brother Steve Lindsay (Michelle Lincoln) of Belgrade; sister in law Sandy (Eric) Peterson of Great Falls, Bryan Bechard of Kevin; sister in law Brigitte (Mike) Randolph of New Braunfels, TX; sister in law Carol Kiefer of Gruene, TX; father in law Gordon Bechard of Dutton; mother in law Rosemarie Meek of Windcrest, TX; his special Aunt Edie Juvick of Billings; and countless extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Juvik; mother in law Joyce Bechard; father in law James Meek; step father Warren Brass; sister in law and brothers in law Debbie and Mike Persall, and Tom Meek.
Dick lived for God, family, and country – leaving a legacy of love and commitment to others.
Sweet dreams, I love you. Sleep tight, moor.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Vanessa Tolson says
Linda, Lisa & family, I am so very sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at the Ryder difficult time. Love to you all.
Brianne Mulvaney says
I am very sorry about Dick. As a new funeral director navigating the work we do at services – Dick was always someone I could count on to give me a positive word and a warm smile; he has always been a comforting presence for me. If we hadn’t seen each other in a while we would always share a big embrace. My heart is sad today because I won’t get to see Dick on this earth again. I sure hope his family feels his presence during this time. I pray that God lifts his family up and comforts their hearts and minds.
John L Bibler II says
On behalf of the entire membership of American Legion Riders Tri-County Association, Lewis and Clark Post 2, Helena, Montana, we offer our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to Linda and the entire Juvick family for the loss of Dick, our brother veteran and friend. We stand ready to support and assist in any manner possible to honor his service and passing.
Respectfully,
John L. Bibler II, Director
American Legion Riders Tri-County Association,
Lewis and Clark Post 2, Helena, Montana
Vicki Hampson says
We are so very sorry to hear about Dick. He was one of the kindest people I knew. Linda & Family, please know you are in my Prayers.
Mike & Vicki Hampson
Laurie Kops says
Linda and family…my heart and thoughts are with you as you journey through this very difficult time. I am so sorry to hear that Dick passed away…know that his fighting spirit is still with you and that he’s at your side. Much love to all of you. ❤️❤️❤️
dan edwards says
It really saddened me to hear of Dick’s passing, I always liked talking to him and hearing about what he was doing. I still remember a red haired guy with a red beard, 30 years ago. He was one of the good ones.
Nicki Chopski says
Linda, Lisa and family,
We sure liked Dick and are so sorry to hear of his passing. Together you and a few dedicated others pulled off such an incredibly meaningful success when you got 287 renamed POW/MIA Memorial Highway. The joy and pride that brought to all of us as we rode that ride together each year will live on as a legacy and tribute to Dick. His perseverance in finding ways to honor our missing and ensure they were never forgotten in Montana is an inspiration for all of us. I also put the escort of the return of Captain Robert E Holton in the top 3 rides I’ve ever made and it was done with you and the Montana riders. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dawn Williams says
Linda and Lisa
It was such an honor to ride with you and Dick every year whether you were leading the pack or running sweep. Dick will be missed by us all and you are loved by us all.
Jim Gosink says
Jim Gosink says that Dick made everyone around him a better person. We have lost a wonderful person and a great family man.
Kelly Ackerman says
On behalf of Montana Veterans Affairs Division and the Board of Veterans Affairs, I offer my deepest condolences to Dick’s family. He was a treasured member of our Board, and a valuable volunteer with our State Veterans Cemetery program.
Teresa Lea Sturm says
We are so sorry for the loss of your loved one Dick Juvik. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Hold on to all the beautiful memories you have made with Dick.
Teresa & Dave Sturm
Lela G Wendt says
So sorry about your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Kip Allen says
I’m am so very so for your loss. Love you all
Kate says
Linda and Family!
We were very saddened to hear of Dick’s passing. Hold tight to all the wonderful memories you all shared together. Allow the “twinkling merriment” that was almost always present in his eyes to bring peace to your own spirits. Much love to you all!
Mark and Kate Peterson
Barney Brandt says
Linda, I’m so sorry to hear of Dicks passing. It’s so hard to lose your spouse as I did a year ago. One thing you have your family close by, they are a tremendous help during these sad and lonely times. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Barney Brandt
Barbara Moy says
Linda, Lisa, J R and David. Am so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. We shared a lot of fun times as neighbors. I will keep each of you in my heart and prayers. Barb Moy
Jennifer Schade says
Dearest Linda and family, Please accept my deepest condolences to you and your entire family. I was heartbroken to hear about Dick. He was a great man with a great heart. He will be missed by all who were blessed to know him. Jennifer
Don Pratt says
Linda and Famly So sorry to hear of Dick’s passing He was a very nice man and will be greatly missed.. If there is anything I can do pleasecall on me.
Angel Petersen says
Linda and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. We feel fortunate that we had the opportunity to get to know him through Wreaths Across America.
Petersen family of Boy Scout Troop 1207.
FLORENCE & GALE JEROME says
Dear Linda – We are so sorry to hear about Dick’s passing and will miss seeing him at church. Take care and know that we are all there for you as we are so fond of you both. If you need us for anything just give a call as we will be there for you or come by and we will put the coffee on and have a chat.
Florence & Gale Jerome
Kim Turkiewicz says
Linda and family, it’s with a heavy heart I write this note to you. I’m so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. He truly was one of the good guys, a true gentleman!
Whenever talk of soulmates came up I always thought of you and Dick with great fondness. You two always set such a wonderful example of two people in love for a long time!
I remember a time before kids came along. We went to a Jeep rally and stayed in your camper with you. It poured the rain and there was mud everywhere! We ended up spending most of the time in the camper trying to stay dry. Do you remember, Linda?
May your family, friends and memories help comfort you in this difficult time.
Kim and Steve Turkiewicz
Michael Glueckert says
So very sorry about your loss and Dick passing. I worked with Dick for many decades and became friends. He was always kind honest and above all a compassionate caring individual. I and all of us in the craft trusted him and indeed he stood on principle. I and all will miss him. My personel thoughts and prayers are with Linda JR and family. He is in a better place !a man of faith! So sorry mike glueckert and family
Fenske says
Linda & family, We are so very sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Much love, Gene & Nancy Fenske
Ralph Kramer says
It was a honor to get to know Dick and his work with the Montana POW*MIA Ride to Remember. I will always remember him as a soft spoken gentle man and dedicated to his family and the POW*MIA Issue. I didn’t get to know him long but we were friends right from the start. Linda and the kids, remember what wonderful times you shared and how he took the community into his hands and helped guide them. I will greatly miss him. All our love, from Ralph, Denise and the Boise Valley POW*MIA Corporation!
Don and Dolly Pentecost says
Linda and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We pray for comfort for all who knew and loved him.
Kathleen Strausbaugh says
😢 I knew so little of this amazing man and I grew up around him….thank you for sharing his story Lisa❤️
Kathy Strausbaugh
Belinda Begger says
Linda, we are so sorry for your loss. Dick will be missed. Know you are in our prayers, thoughts and hearts! Harold and Bea Begger
Sharon Doig says
Linda and family, condolences on the passing of Dick. Together you were a force for honoring our fallen veterans. Forever grateful. Far winds and fallowing seas, Dick.🙏🏻🇺🇸💔⚓️
Shirley Parr says
Linda, I’m so very sorry to hear of your husband’s passing!! I love reading his detailed biography in the obit! I never knew him, but I know you must be so very proud of his life and achievements. God bless you, my sweet little cousin, and all your family. Much love!!!💔❤️💔❤️
Shirley.
😟❤️
Karen McMillan says
Linda and Family, Joe and I were so sad to hear of the passing of your beloved Dick. He was such a great guy, with a wonderful smile! Joe enjoyed working with him at Allen Electric, so many years ago! God bless all of your family. May the support of God and the wonderful memories you have strengthen all of you during this difficult time.
POW*MIA Awareness Organization of Utah says
Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of this great man and fellow patriot. He was great man who did so many wonderful things for the support of our troops and those still lost and unaccounted for. We send our love, our prayers and best wishes to Dicks family members and our sisters and brothers of the Montana POW*MIA Association. RIP Dick and thank you for your service and commitment.
Mary Clark says
Dear Linda and family, I was so startled and saddened to hear of Dick’s death. My heart goes out to you. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers
Brigitte Randolph says
Forever thankful to have known and loved such a Good, Godly & Blessed man!! It is an honor to love the whole Juvik family! Praying for each of you during this difficult time for Blessings of Peace!
We Love you All!!
The Randolph Family
Frances Wright says
Dear Linda and family,
I was saddened to learn that Dick had passed on. I love you and your family and I know that this has been a difficult time for all of you. I ask that God will be with you to comfort you. I saw Dick only one time but he impressed me as a loving and caring man. You must feel lost without him.
Please remember that I have loved you all of your life. You are special to me.
Love, Aunt Frances
Laura Barry says
A wonderful contribution of your dear husband, Dick. My prayers & deepest thoughts are with you & your dear family…. I remember serving time on OLV parish council with Dick. He will be missed .. May he be at peace now with the Lord & no more suffering.. If you need anything or just need to talk , I’m here for you . Love & deepest sympathy Laura Barry
Greg and Char DeWall says
Linda and family, we were so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. We really enjoyed getting to know him and always looked forward the Ride to Remember each summer. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dick will be missed, but never forgotten.
Dick and Mary Drysdale says
We were so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. He was such an advocate for veterans. What a wonderful legacy.
Comfort and peace to you and your family. Dick and Mary Drysdale
Eric & Miki Brass says
Dear Linda, and Family,
Miki and I are still in disbelief of Dick’s passing. He was one of those individuals you meet and know that he grounds your family with love, and care, and integrity. You have had your own health concerns, as of recent. Please stay healthy for your immediate family, they need you! If Miki and I can be of assistance to you, don’t hesitate, just call or email us. With our love, Eric & Miki
Connie & Dave Cole says
We have lived north of Lake Helena for over thirty years and Dick Juvik was our electrician for most of that time on various projects. He was always wonderful and patient to work with. Murphy’s Law seems to govern the lives of electricians and plumbers: when something can go wrong, it will, and usually at the worst possible time. Dick was always dependable when a crisis struck. We had three horses and lost power to our barn so had no power or heat for our horse waterer. Dick came in below zero temperatures with a gale force wind blowing snow, in brutal conditions for trouble shooting a power outage and came up with a fix to get heat to our water supply. That’s the kind of man he was. Always generous with his time and always there when you needed him. The kind of special person who always made a difference for our community and was ready to help. We are all poorer for his absence.
Connie & Dave Cole
Pam Buzalsky says
Sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for your family. I will miss the visits with Dick after 8AM mass sharing coffee and Navy stories. Fair Winds and Following Seas Shipmate.💕⚓🇺🇸💕
Lance Seaman says
Sorry to hear of Dick’s passing Linda, thoughts are with you, Lance Seaman
Beth Foster says
Linda and family, I am so sorry to hear of Dick’s passing in April. I am so saddened by the loss of a wonderful man,and patriot. I can remember many Veteran’s services and events where you, Dick and so many others were there to support and celebrate the lives of soldiers. I remember when the POW/MIA flags were first put up on the highway! Piping you all off on your inaugural run to support Veterans and families.
Bless you and when I’m back in Helena I’ll bring my pipes.
Take care and God Bless
Beth Foster and Family
Jeff & Karan Lapham says
Dear Linda, So sorry for your loss. The world lost a great man when Dick graduated to heaven. You have our most sincere sympathy and our deepest prayers. God now has one of His warriors at home with Him. Take care of yourself. We are here if you need anything. God bless you.
In His Love,
Jeff & Karan Lapham
Christian Motorcyclists Association
Helena, MT
Doc Carl says
J.R. and family,
Sorry for the great loss. Dick was one good man. Keep that trike tuned up for him. Call Anytime, still got the Helena number even though been in Georgia for almost six years. Take care of business man. Love ya Doc Carl 406-422-3194
Tom & Kim Hayes says
Dear Juvik family,
We are so saddened to hear of Dick’s passing. May the fond memories you have of him help ease your pain. He will be truly missed.
With our deepest sympathy,
Tom & Kim Hayes
Kathleen Tibbetts says
Linda and Family
I was a classmate of Dick’s in Rudyard and remember how caring and thoughtful he was. May you remember the fond memories you have and keep them close. From one sailor’s wife to another, May he rest in God’ arms.