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Richard Reaves Obituary

Richard Alan Reaves, 63, of Billings, passed away January 17, 2019, in his home after a difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. Richard was born August 28, 1955, in Mendota, Illinois, to Kenneth and Louise Reaves.

Richard grew up in Roundup with his 7 siblings. He loved Roundup and would go back often and visit the many friends and family he had there. In 1979 he met Denise Essex, and they were married in 1980. Together with their daughter, Amber Reaves, they moved to Billings in 1988. Richard worked at TrueNorth Steel (formerly Roscoe Steel) as a Steel Fabricator for over 30 years.

Richard was an amazing man with a heart of gold. One would describe him as having a calm demeanor with an easygoing personality. He was the most incredible, loving and caring husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. He enjoyed many things in life, such as fishing, hiking and camping. You would often find him sitting around a fire with a good beer and friends and family. He loved riding his motorcycle and traveling around the U.S. on it. He also enjoyed music, going to concerts and had an extensive collection of vinyl records, turntables and amps. On any given weekend morning you would find Richard roaming Billings going to garage sales, estate sales and thrift stores looking for unique items or "great finds." He had a special knack for this and would sell many items on eBay, give them away to friends and family or keep them for his collection.

Richard was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Reaves and his mother Louise Reaves. 

Richard is survived by his wife Denise Essex Reaves and daughter Ambrosia (Amber) Rose Reaves. He is also survived by his siblings, Ronald Reaves, Patricia Reynolds, Ernie Reaves, Everett Reaves, David Reaves, Dorothy Asbury and Wanda DeJaegher. In addition he is survived by many nieces, nephews and close friends.

Richard will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Our hearts are broken and will never be the same without him. We will always remember his amazing spirit and cherish those memories forever.

There will be no services at this time, but the family will be holding a Remembrance and Celebration of Life in May.

Arrangements are by Cremation & Funeral Gallery. To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.cfgbillings.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Billings Gazette on Jan. 22, 2019.

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