Kaedyn Asher Richards

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved boy whose zest for life and generous spirit touched the hearts of all who knew him. 

Kaedyn Asher Richards, 18, born October 8, 2005, passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024, due to injuries sustained in a car accident. 

Kaedyn, born in Missoula, Montana, joined the Richards Family at 5 weeks old, the baby of the bunch, officially making us a “Party of 6”.   What we didn’t know at the time was Kaedyn would be the life of the party in this family making every adventure and celebration even more memorable with his contagious smile, sense of humor and charisma. 

Kaedyn grew up in Florence and Lolo attending school at Florence, Valley Christian, Target Range, Big Sky and Sentinel. Although he had many friends, Kaedyn could most often be found hanging out with teachers, counselors, custodians, and the school resource officer soaking in every bit of grown-up conversation and knowledge he could. After graduating early from High School, Kaedyn went on to take night classes in welding. He played Lacrosse for many years and of course volunteered to be goalie because he was game for any challenge.

Kaedyn was the absolute happiest baby and kid growing up.  Always smiling, always joking, always happy. He naturally gravitated toward elders in our neighborhoods and community and was full of facts about their life, their kids, their jobs. Despite being the youngest brother, Kaedyn was an old soul and wise beyond his years. He never missed an opportunity to counsel his older sister Kenzie where she graciously took his unsolicited advice with an open heart.

 Not many people are lucky enough to have a best friend their entire lives, but Kaedyn was. Born just 4 months apart, Kaedyn’s cousin Hailey was by his side for the entire ride. It is almost impossible to tell a story about Kaedyn without it starting with “remember when Kaeds and Hails…” Memories made with grandparents always made for a good story when “double trouble” came for a visit. 

 Kaedyn spent countless hours with friends modifying their cars to be the loudest and fastest they could. A toolbox and welding gear were staple items in Kaedyn’s car…just in case. Weekend nights were spent at “Car Meets” while early mornings at “Cars and Coffee”. No matter the hour, day or night, friends would reach out and ask Kaedyn to “Come Fix It!”. No matter how difficult, Kaedyn never questioned his ability to get the job done knowing he had the support, expertise, and extra muscle of his dad; a dedicated father who spent endless hours providing Kaedyn with the skills he used to make a positive impact.  

 An avid outdoorsman, he found comfort in the serenity of fishing the Bitterroot River either alone or with friends. Summer months were also spent burning out on dirt bikes and camping with his dad and brothers, Co and Ky, mountain biking with his uncle Craig, as well as taking in the tranquility of hunting with his dad and uncles. In the winter you would find Kaedyn seeking the thrill of snowboarding down slopes with his family. His laughter was a frequent companion on many an adventure with friends and family, whom he cherished deeply.

 Known for his willingness to lend a hand, he was a beacon of help in the community. His skilled hands were not just tools but instruments of kindness, fixing what was broken and improving what needed enhanced. He lived his life with a purpose that extended beyond himself, always ready to support, uplift, and assist anyone in need. As we bid farewell to a soul taken too soon, we find comfort in the memories of his unwavering kindness and the lasting mark he left on the world. We celebrate a life that, though brief, was lived to the fullest and dedicated to the happiness and well-being of others.

 Kaedyn was preceded in death by his grandpa, John Richards, many great grandparents, and his dear friend Benny. 

Survivors include his parents Mike and Mandy Richards; brothers, Colton and Kyler and his sister Kenzie. His fur besties…Bentley and Berkley who miss him terribly.

Aunts and Uncles that played a vital role in Kaedyn’s life as mentors and supporters; Craig and Lindsey Cerise, Joscelyn and Cody Sutton, John and Tammy Richards, and Rich Herrera.

Cousins who made growing up together so much fun: Hailey and Ryker Sutton, Madison and Sydney Cerise, Cylee and Scarlett Herrera, and Hannah Richards. 

Grandparents who thought he hung the moon: Dave and Lori Cerise, Robyn and Ed Smart, Dave and Violet Evenson, and Doug Clark.

Kaedyn will be missed by a multitude of great aunts and uncles, extended cousins and family friends who loved him like one of their own. 

You are at peace now our boy. The river is calling, and you must go.

A celebration of life will be held at 11am on Saturday July 6^th at Garden City Funeral home in Missoula, MT.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Kaedyn Richards “Come Fix It!” Trade School Memorial Scholarship. Donations can be made directly to MCPS 909 South Ave West, Missoula, MT 59801. The Lifelong Learning Center will also take donations for students that need help with tuition and supplies for Trade Classes.