Rick Bice

Rick Bice, 77, of Missoula, Mt. passed away Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Rick was the oldest of three sons, born October 18, 1946 to Robert and Joyce Bice in Billings, Montana. 

In 1965 he married the love of his life, Linda Jean Phythian.  On the day Linda graduated from high school, they drove to Blackfoot Idaho and eloped.  Shortly after, Rick enlisted in the Marines.  After Rick was discharged, he went to work for the local newspaper in Billings, Montana, then transferred to Mason City, Iowa, where in 1969, Rick and Linda welcomed their first son, Trent.  He continued his newspaper career there, until transferring to the Missoula, Montana in 1970.  In 1972 they welcomed their second child, Trevor.  Rick continued working for the Missoulian until 1974. He worked in various positions until he found his ultimate calling.  In 1985 he decided to start his own business with the help of long-time newspaper friend, Mike Dawkins.  Insty-Prints which eventually re-branded to Allegra Print and Imaging was a staple of downtown Missoula for the better part of three decades, until his retirement in 2013.

Rick loved his family immensely and enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his ultimate passion was cars. He restored a 1967 Chevrolet El Camino, which he drove for the better part of 15 years.  Later in life he restored two beautiful cars.  A 1934 Chevy 5 window Coupe, and a 1957 Chevy Belair Sedan Delivery. He loved driving them to car shows, on road trips, or cruises with Linda and close friends.  He also loved going to the NHRA Drag Races.

Besides being a loving, caring son, brother, husband, dad and friend, Rick had a spirit of eternal optimism.  Things could be falling apart around him, regardless of the challenge, he always found the silver lining. His true nature. Kind hearted is an understatement.  If there was a need, or not, Rick was the first one to volunteer, assist, take care of, or just show up. if you know, you know.

Our family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to his close friends Jamie Baughman and Tom Booth for helping him through the last part of his life after Linda passed away.  They were truly friends that everyone hopes and wishes for.  

Survivors include his son Trent and Jodi Bice (Moscow, ID).  Trevor and Heather Bice (Georgetown, TX), Four grandkids and 4 great grandchildren.  Brother, Ron and Sue Bice (Phoenix, AZ.)

Rick was preceded in death by his wife, Linda, brother, Jim Bice, and parents Robert and Joyce Bice.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, 11 A.M. at Garden City funeral home.