Richard Harry Cavilla, 96

Richard Harry Cavilla, architect and builder of thousands of BIRDHOUSES and a man loved by everyone who knew him, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026, at age 96 and a half.

Richard was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minn., to Julius Cavilla and Alice Gutwinski. He worked for the City of Minneapolis as a recycler. Richard had an incredible work ethic and dug his own basement with a shovel and bucket. 

After retiring, Richard moved to Hayden Lake, Idaho, where he was a proud member of the Eagles and the Elks clubs. He later settled in Spokane, Wash. In 2020, he moved to Moran Vista/Vineyard Park assisted living, where he spent the next six years and loved it, and he spent his last six months at South Hill Rehab, for which he was very grateful. 

Richard outlived his large family, including his sister, Suzanne Cavilla Frank. He is survived by his nephew, Steven Frank; Elizabeth Frank; Adam Frank; and Nicole Frank Barnett. 

Richard had a constant smile on his face and was the most positive, loving person you could ever meet. He was a true inspiration to everyone around him, and he made the world a much better place. 

The service will be held Nov. 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. Pius Church, and he will be interred following the Mass at the Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Yates Funeral Homes is entrusted with final arrangements.