Lloyd Esbon Bache, 96

Lloyd Esbon Bache, 96, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025, in Plains.
Lloyd was born on September 29, 1928, in Plains to Esbon and Ethel (Nixon) Bache. He was one of eight children and the oldest son. Around age five, his family moved to Libby, Montana, where he developed a deep love for the outdoors, working in the woods alongside his father, grandfather, brothers, and many other family members. The Bache family was a hardworking bunch, deeply rooted in logging, ranching, and cowboy traditions.

On Sept. 30, 1950, Lloyd married the love of his life, Virginia Ritter. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised four children — Cathy, Ed, Joe, and Diana. Their family also gained a cherished daughter, Cheryl Brock.

In 1981, after many years of working in Libby, Lloyd’s career led him back to Plains, where he purchased the Stonebrook Ranch.

 A skilled horseman, he found great joy in teaching his children and grandchildren to ride. He took immense pride in working alongside his sons and daughter in his business, Lloyd Bache & Sons. 

However, his greatest happiness came from having his family close, spending time with his grandchildren, and watching them grow up on the ranch. One of his favorite traditions was the annual cattle branding, an event he looked forward to every year. It was a time for hard work, family, and laughter, bringing everyone together in the way he loved most.

Lloyd was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia; daughter, Diana Lakel; grandchildren, Jennifer Lakel and Jeffery Lakel; sister, Bessie; and brothers, Fred, Cecil, Frank, and Bobby.

He is survived by his brothers, John and Kenny; daughters, Cathy Oliver of Plains and Cheryl Brock of Billings; sons, Ed Bache and Joe (LeeAnn) Bache of Plains; 11 grandchildren — Chad Bache, Erin (John) Hayder, Chelsea Kenyon, Eric Bache, Adam (Gabby) Bache, Craig (Terra) Bache, Sara (Zach) Hannum, Christopher Bache, Julia Oliver, Nathan Bache, and Lisa Bache; 19 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Lloyd’s legacy of love, hard work, and family devotion will be carried on by those who knew and loved him. A memorial service will be planned for later this summer.