Jon Bosworth Chaney, 86, passed away at his home in Bozeman, Montana, on May 22,
2025. He leaves behind a legacy of tenacity, dedication, and profound love for family
and the land he cultivated for over six decades.
Born in Portland, Oregon, to Henry Francis Chaney and Elizabeth Berger, Jon faced
early tragedy when his mother passed away when he was just seven years old. Raised
by his devoted father, Jon treasured their time together, hunting and exploring the
world, as they traveled through Europe, Egypt, and Africa. When his father died just
before his freshman year of high school, 14-year-old Jon found guidance and support
from his older brother, Alger, who enrolled him at Webb School for Boys in Southern
California.
It was during a junior year dance that Jon met RoyAnne Terry, who would become his
first wife. Together, they welcomed five children within ten years, creating the
foundation of the large, loving family that would become Jon’s greatest pride.
In 1963, Jon purchased a piece of land strategically located between the Delevan
National Wildlife Refuge and the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge, initially
envisioning it as prime hunting property for a duck club. It was young Joe Carrancho who
recognized the land’s agricultural potential and convinced Jon to try rice farming,
teaching him the skills that would transform him into one of Northern California’s most
respected rice farmers. Jon later welcomed Paul Richter into his operation, forging a
lifelong friendship and business partnership that endured for decades.
Throughout his remarkable life, Jon found his greatest joy in three passions: the art and
science of farming, his love of hunting, and above all, his cherished children and
grandchildren. His dedication to the land was matched only by his devotion to family
and his loyalty to his friends. Jon is survived by his five children, Caryn Schulberg, Lisa
Atwood, Hunter Chaney, Kathryn LaComb, and Russell Chaney, as well as thirteen
grandchildren.