Vernon Thomas Caven passed away at his home in Sagle, Idaho on Nov. 13, 2021, after a brief battle with cancer. He was 78 years old.

Vern was born in Santa Rosa, California, on September 17, 1943, to a large extended family of Italian and Irish descent. While in high school in California, he met and married the love of his life, Pam, in February of 1961. They had three children, Vern R., Lisa and Jeff. Out of high school, he began his career as a carpenter, following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps. He found a passion for hunting and fishing, and spent many hours scouting the mountains for the perfect buck and commercial fishing out of Bodega Bay.

In June 1977, Vern, Pam and their three children traveled to Sandpoint, Idaho, to visit friends. They fell in love with the community; and ultimately moved to the area in September of the same year. They lived in a camper on their friends’ property with their three children and a dog until their permanent family home became available.

In June 1980, Vern purchased Ace Septic Tank Service. Vern never had idle hands. Building toilets and tinkering on vehicles, he and the family grew the business, while serving the community he loved with fairness and a charitable heart. It’s come a long way from the old plywood portable toilets Ace began with. After 41 years, you can be guaranteed there is not a potty joke he has not heard or told. As he partially retired, he joked that his biggest decision for the day was which project to work on.

From buying, to racing, to restoring, Vern’s passion for motors, cars and boats was very clear to anybody who had the privilege of meeting him. He built his dream boat, lovingly monikered “Blood, Sweat and Tears,” and worked with his son, Vern, on many rebuilds. He was also deeply involved with his sons’ mini-sprint car racing, traveling far and wide to compete in races.

Vern enjoyed being surrounded by his family, inspiring them to follow their dreams. He shared his passion for his hobbies of hunting and fishing with each generation that came along, who now have their own stories to tell. He was a loving father and grandfather, and a cherished husband to his wife Pam, with whom he celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents, Vern L. Caven and Frances L. Caven; younger brother, Donald Caven; grandson, Michael Caven and daughter-in-law, Georgia Caven. He is survived by his wife, Pam Caven; brother, Dennis Caven; sons, Vern R Caven and Jeff Caven; daughter, Lisa Wilson; grandchildren, Rick, James, Tristina, Katey, Kylie, Felice and Makenna; and great-grandchildren Camille, Xander, Seth, Weston, Taylynn and Hadley.

Private graveside services and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the medical staff at Bonner General Health and Kootenai Health for their services and support during Vern’s battle.

Family and friends are invited to sign Vern’s online guest book at www.coffeltfuneral.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Coffelt Funeral Service of Sandpoint.