Memorial

Miriam Ruth (Ask) Caves, 96, of Cedar Rapids, joined her Savior in Heaven on Tuesday, November 12, 2024. Visitation will be Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at the Cedar Memorial Stateroom in Cedar Rapids and Friday, November 22, 2024, at 9:00 AM at New Covenant Bible Church in Cedar Rapids. Funeral service will be Friday, November 22, 2024 at 10:00 AM at New Covenant Bible Church in Cedar Rapids. A committal service will follow at 3:00 PM at Memorial Lawn Cemetery in Ottumwa. 

Miriam was born October 5, 1928, in Ottumwa, Iowa, the daughter of Axel and Martha (Johnson) Ask. She was the youngest of three children. The family celebrated their Swedish heritage and attended the Swedish Congregational Church. Miriam trusted the Lord at a young age and possessed a deep faith that guided her life. 

Miriam married Donald Caves on May 15,1949, at the Little Brown Church. She loved being a homemaker, cooking, volunteering and raising her children. Miriam was a talented artist and musician and she loved playing the piano, singing and painting. She sang in the choir at North Court Baptist in Ottumwa, directed the children’s choir, and taught children Sunday school classes. 

After retirement, Miriam and Don enjoyed spending winters in Arizona and moved to Cedar Rapids to be closer to family. While in Cedar Rapids, they became members of New Covenant Bible Church where she also served in various ministries. After the passing of her husband, she devoted herself to her role as grandma. She was beloved by her six grandchildren and is fondly remembered for hosting wonderful family celebrations and holiday parties. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren's sporting and music events and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Miriam had a wonderful sense of humor and the family has many great memories of laughing and enjoying each other’s company. 

Miriam is survived by her two children, Steven (Suzanne) Caves and Susan Pettit; six grandchildren, Daniel Pettit, David Caves, Melissa (Eric) McDonald, Stephanie (Dustin) Coy, Stacey (Michael) Wilke, and Michael (Kathryn) Caves; fourteen great grandchildren, and sister-in-law LaOra Miles. She was preceded in death by her husband Donald Caves; son-in-law Dennis Pettit; brothers John Ask and Robert (Marilyn) Ask; and her parents. 

A very special thank you to the Hiawatha Care Center for their love and care throughout the years. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Children’s Ministry at New Covenant Bible Church.