Richard Charles Cayko passed away peacefully on Friday evening at his farm home in Fairview, North Dakota. He was born on May 28, 1950, in Sidney, Montana, to John and Jeannette (Berry) Cayko, and was 75 years old.

In 2019, Richard battled cancer, and in the years since, he lived life to the fullest. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Johnny; his wife, Patricia (Pat); and his son, Craig.

Richard is survived by his wife, Catherine (Foster); Brother Ivan, Brother Terry (Vicky), Sister Elaine (Trudell) (Harvey Finsaas), daughter Marci (Kevin Lynch) of Huntley, MT; daughter Tana of Sidney, MT; son Anthony “Tony” (Christine Lerdahl) of Bloomington, MN; stepson Derk Lockhart; stepson Hootie (Kelli) Lockhart; and stepdaughter Jovita (Aaron Ellis) of Walker, LA.

He was blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including granddaughters from Marci and Tana; grandsons John and Alex from Tony; and 7 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren through his marriage to Catherine.

Richard was full of life and deeply committed to his community. Known for his jovial spirit and huge personality, he had a gift for making people feel welcome. He flirted playfully with the ladies, shared countless laughs with the guys, and always had a joke ready. Richard seemed to know everyone — and everyone knew and loved him. He helped countless people over the years, serving as a true pillar of the community. On the many boards where he served, he brought common sense, steady leadership, and a sense of humor. He had a way of bringing sunshine into a gloomy room and was generous with both his time and his smiles.

His service included the Jaycees; the East Fairview School Board (12 years); the Job Development Authority of McKenzie County; McKenzie County Commissioner (20 years); the Lower Yellowstone Irrigation Board; the Garrison Diversion Project; and the Yellowstone Township Board of Supervision. He was also a member and Exalted Ruler of the Elks, and a devoted member of St. Catherine’s Catholic Church.

Memorial Contribution