James "Jim" George Caves

James “Jim” George Caves, age 64 of Wild Rose, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 24, 2022 at his home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Wild Rose on July 7, 1958 to Robert and Jessie (Vergin) Caves. He graduated from Wild Rose High School with the class of 1976. He went to work at the multi-generational family business, Ross Caves & Son Trucking and after his father’s passing, Jim and his brother Larry took over the business. On September 18, 1981 he married Julie Ann Diedrick at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Combined Locks. In 2010 Jim went to work as a Diesel Mechanic for Brakebush Transportation in Westfield. Family was everything to Jim. He enjoyed garden tractor pulls with his boys, taking Harley Trips with his family, and was “Very Yard Proud”. He had almost completed his “Backyard Oasis” for his family to enjoy together. He was also very active in the Wild Rose community. He was a past Booster Club member, on bowling leagues, played softball for the Silver Lakers Softball Team, a life time member of the Wild Rose Fire Department and many other community groups and activities. Jim was also a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. Jim was known by his family as “Mr. Fix it” because if anyone had a question on how to fix something, he knew how. Jim’s internal GPS helped many family and friends find their way to their destination. Jim will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his wife: Julie Caves; sons: Brandon (Ashley) Caves, Tyson (Amber Huffman) Caves; grandchildren (known as Papa Jim Jim): Jaxson, Beckett, and Gracie; sister: Vicki (Guy) Gooding; brothers: Don (Debbie) Caves, Larry (Ruth) Caves; father-in-law: Gene Diedrick; sisters-in-law: Karen Kieper, Mary Hermus; brothers-in-law: Tim (Michelle) Diedrick, Mike (Fran) Diedrick, Jeff Diedrick; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and mother-in-law: Carol Diedrick.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Sunday, December 11, 2022 at the Mt. Morris Camp & Retreat Center, W6016 Blackhawk Rd, Wautoma from 12PM until 4PM. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established in Jim's name.