On May 24, 2026, Paul James Caven passed away at his home near Jameson, Missouri. Paul was born on December 21, 1946, in Glasgow, Scotland. In 1948, his family immigrated to America and eventually settled in Burbank, California, where he was raised. Proud of his Scottish heritage, Paul played the drums in a bagpipe band.
Paul attended Bellarmine-Jefferson High School in Burbank, where he lettered in track and swimming and served as Junior Class President.
After graduating in 1965, Paul joined the Burbank National Guard, completing basic training at Fort Ord in Northern California. In 1968, he was called to active duty and served for a year at Fort Lewis, Washington.
In 1967, Paul entered a trainee program for studio electrical technicians at Warner Brothers Studio. After completing his training, he joined the International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees, Local 728, where he eventually received his 50-Year Pin and Gold Card. From 2001 to 2007, Paul served as an Executive Board Member for Local 728.
Paul spent 40 years doing lighting for movie and television productions. Early in his career, he worked on popular television shows such as Bonanza, The Streets of San Francisco, and The Partridge Family at Warner Brothers. In 1972, Paul was hired onto the electrical crew of gaffer Richmond Aguilar. Paul became Aggie’s “Best Boy,” and together, over the next 25 years, they worked on Academy Award-winning films such as Paper Moon and On Golden Pond. In 2021, Paul authored a book about his adventures working in Hollywood titled Tales from Behind the Lights, where he shared his love and passion for making movies.
In 1968, Paul married his wife, Denise Bonnett, and in 1982 they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Danielle. Paul’s work often required him to travel for months at a time, and Denise and Danielle frequently accompanied him.
An avid gardener, Paul enjoyed working in his yard, but his true passion was growing orchids. For 50 years, he cultivated beautiful orchids in his greenhouse and generously shared them with friends and family.
After retirement, Paul, Denise, and Danielle moved to Gallatin, Missouri, where they built their home and became active members of the Jameson and Gallatin communities. After responding to a local newspaper ad seeking volunteers for an upcoming Gallatin Theater League production, Paul volunteered to handle the lighting for the play. For the next 17 years, he became known as their “Light Guy,” working on Gallatin Theater League productions, high school plays, and choir performances.
In retirement, Paul dedicated even more time to serving his community. He was elected to the North Daviess R-III School Board, the Grand River Township Board, and the Jameson Fire Protection District Board of Directors. He was also a member of Jameson Community Betterment. Paul loved being an active part of his community and giving back to those around him.
Paul is survived by his wife of 57 years, Denise; his daughter, Danielle; his sister, Rosina Caven Piazza; and many members of the Caven/Meikle family. He was preceded in death by his father, Ambrose Caven; his mother, Rosina Meikle Caven; and his older brother, John Caven.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to The Gallatin Theater League, Jameson Fire Protection District, or Jameson Community Betterment in care of the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM, Friday, June 5, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Burial will be at Valhalla Memorial Park at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Gallatin (660) 663-2117. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com
Source: KMZU, The Farm
