Richard "Rich" Choquette

March 18, 1942 - September 18, 2025

Richard Arthur Choquette, 83, of Whitehall, MT passed away on September 18 in the arms of his loving wife.

Richard was born on March 18, 1942, in Kemmerer, Wyoming, to Jesse Duffy and Richard Leon Choquette. The oldest of four children, he was a devoted big brother to Bob, Jim, and especially his baby sister Mary Ann, whom he adored. After the early passing of his father, Richard stepped into the role of head of household, caring for his busy family with strength and devotion.

He graduated from the Butte Catholic School System and spent his summers working on his Uncle Frank's ranch in Whitehall, where he discovered his love of the outdoors. After high school, Richard proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps for six years at Camp Pendleton, California. During that time, he also rode in the rodeo circuit and embraced every adventure life offered.

In 1965 Richard was set up on a blind date by his good friend Joe Walsh with Karen Osborne, who would become the love of his life. They married November 5, 1965 and built a beautiful life together. Richard lovingly adopted Karen's two children, Todd and Beth and together they welcomed three daughters: Shera, Lori, and Brittany.

Richard worked as a hoisting engineer for the Anaconda Company for 15 years before joining Golden Sunlight Mine, where he worked for 22 years and rose to the position of lead man. He was respected by all who worked with him, known for his fairness, honesty, and pride in his work.

A true outdoorsman, Richard loved hunting, fishing, and time in nature. He had a quick wit and a wicked sense of humor that brightened every gathering. In retirement, he and Karen wintered in Overton, Nevada, where they forged lifelong friendships, fished on Lake Meade and explored the desert on quad rides.

Above all, Richard was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and grandfather. His family was his greatest joy, and he will be missed every single day.

Richard is survived by his wife, Karen; his sons, Todd (Brenda) and Rick (Linda); his daughters, Shera Konen, Lori Layne (Jason), and Brittany; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Jim Choquette, and his sister, Maryanne Skuletich (George), along with many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Beth Halvorsen; his parents, Leon and Jessie; his brother, Bob; his father- and mother-in-law, John and Betty Osborne; his brothers-in-law, Bill and Steve; and his sister-in-law, Jonnie Beth Hernandez.

A service to celebrate Richard's life will be held at a later date to be announced.

Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing Richard lived a life full of love, laughter, and adventure, leaving behind memories that will be cherished forever.

To share a memory or leave a condolence visit:

www.axelsonfuneralhome.com

Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services

2009 Harrison Ave.

Butte, MT 59701

4064944264

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

Published by The Montana Standard on Sep. 27, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Choquette

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2 Entries

Randy Winstead

September 28, 2025

I worked with Rich when he was a hoisting engineer at thr Leonard and East Colusa mines for the A.C.M. CO. He was a very kind and good man and a great hoisting engineer. I also had the pleasure of taking care of his mother as a nurse in the nursing home after the mines closed. She was such a joy and a very sweet lady to me. They are both in my heart forevermore. Rest easy Rich. Randy Winstead

Mark and June Gornick

September 27, 2025

Karen and family, so sorry for your loss. Rich was great person to know and I got to work with him several years at the GSM and saw him many times in the mountains. He is in our thoughts and prayers. Take care. God bless. Mark and June

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