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Mark WandlerMark Wandler, of Anaconda, Montana, passed away on October 16, 2026, at the age of 66.Mark was born on Augus...
10/26/2026

Mark Wandler

Mark Wandler, of Anaconda, Montana, passed away on October 16, 2026, at the age of 66.

Mark was born on August 9, 1960, to Wilbert and Dolores Rae Wandler and was the youngest of their four sons. His life was rooted between Billings and Anaconda, where generations of his family lived, shared memories, built connections, and called Montana home.

Mark worked alongside his father and brothers in Colstrip, Montana, as a boilermaker. Through their work together, they shared not only a livelihood but also the bonds of family, teamwork, and dedication.

Throughout his life, Mark held many cherished roles as a son, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was formerly married to Stacey Huff, with whom he shared a son, Derek Lee Wandler. Derek passed away in 2018. Through Derek, Mark was blessed with three grandchildren, Taytum Wandler, Sean Wandler, and Arayla Wandler, who carry forward a part of the family’s legacy.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbert and Dolores Rae Wandler; his son, Derek Lee Wandler; his brothers, Daniel Wandler and Timothy Wandler; his aunt, Josephine Hafer; his uncle, Marty Wandler; and possibly other family members whose lives and memories remain an important part of his family’s history.

He is survived by his former wife, Stacey Huff; his older brother, Duane Wandler; his grandchildren, Taytum Wandler, Sean Wandler, and Arayla Wandler; and his nieces, nephews, and extended family.

As family and friends remember Mark, may they reflect on the importance of family, the passage of generations, and the memories that connect us to those who came before. Every life leaves its own mark, and Mark’s memory will remain a meaningful part of the Wandler family’s story.

Funeral services will be announced at a later date.

May his soul rest in peace, reunited with the loved ones who went before him. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him. In this time of loss, may we find comfort in knowing that he has found eternal rest.

Rest peacefully, Mark.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Mark and his family.

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Thomas Edward YochemDr. Thomas E. Yochem, 74, of Anaconda, Montana, died suddenly October 20, 2026.He was born in Hornel...
10/26/2026

Thomas Edward Yochem

Dr. Thomas E. Yochem, 74, of Anaconda, Montana, died suddenly October 20, 2026.

He was born in Hornell, New York, a son of Edward and Virginia Yochem. He was a graduate of Haverling High school in Bath, New York, The State University of New York @ Cortland and the Southern California School of Optometry in Fullerton, California.

After undergraduate school, Tom moved west working as a geologist for the Bureau of Land Management in both Worland, Wyoming, and Billings, Montana. He left the BLM after 11 years and returned to school to pursue a Doctor of Optometry degree. Upon receiving his degree, he secured a practice in Anaconda and provided comprehensive eye care until his retirement.

He is survived by his longtime partner, Susan Hollowell, and her family; his sister, Elizabeth Yochem, of Syracuse, New York; and his brother, Richard Yochem, of Hammondsport, New York.

Tom enjoyed the outdoors and upon moving west, he embraced many of the activities the area had to offer: wilderness camping, elk hunting, hiking, and exploring the National Parks. He also had a passion for golf, enjoyed coin collecting and was always eager to try his luck at the horse races and casinos. He was a fan of the New York Mets and of Montana Grizzlies football.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Contributions may be made to The Nature Conservancy of Montana, and the Anaconda Community Foundation.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Thomas and his family.

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Andrew Timothy OlcottAndrew Olcott, 72, passed away at home in Deer Lodge on the evening of October 15, 2026, following ...
10/26/2026

Andrew Timothy Olcott

Andrew Olcott, 72, passed away at home in Deer Lodge on the evening of October 15, 2026, following a recent diagnosis of cancer.

Andrew was born on December 20, 1953, in Red Lodge, Montana, the third of four children of Harry J. Olcott and Alison Ball Olcott. His family later moved to Billings, where he graduated from Billings Senior High School. He went on to the University of Montana, earning a bachelor’s degree in medical microbiology and a master’s degree in parasitology.

While working at the Montana State Laboratory in Helena, Andrew met Lou, who would become his wife of 44 years. Together they raised two children, Kelson and Brooke. Andrew and Lou later returned to Billings, where he partnered with his father in Olcott International. In 2000 they settled in the Deer Lodge Valley, and Andrew worked for the State of Montana as a business manager.

Andrew was an avid outdoorsman who treasured fishing, hunting, and camping trips with family and friends. He served on the ski patrol in Red Lodge and was happiest in the mountains. A world traveler, he journeyed far and wide in pursuit of big game. Closer to home, he generously shared his shooting range with many friends over the years. His hunting partners will miss him dearly on opening day of big game season, but he’ll be there with them in spirit, joking around and making memories as always.

Andrew was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Alison Olcott, and his brother, Tony Olcott (Martha).

He is survived by his wife, Lou Olcott; his children, Kelson Colbo (Suzy) and Brooke Rivera (Joe); his grandchildren, Katie Bailey (Myles), Sydney Bridges (Josh), Logan Crawford (Sarah), Drew Crawford, Max Colbo, Ryan Rivera, and Nick Rivera; his great-grandchild, Brayden McGrady; his stepmother, Virginia Olcott; his sisters, Theresa Olcott Cohea and Janna Hafer (Randy); his brothers, Nick Olcott (Tim), Jay Beller (Linda), and Scott Beller (Margie); his nieces, Alison Olcott, Hillary Olcott, and Addie Cohea (Megan); and his nephews, Andrew Olcott (Lisa) and Cyrus Cohea.

No services are planned at this time; a celebration of life will be held next summer. Memorials may be made to Anaconda Pintler Hospice, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, or the charity of your choice.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Andrew and his family.

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Geraldine "Shirley" PetersonGeraldine “Shirley” Peterson, known to most simply as Mom or Grandma Shirley, passed away at...
10/24/2026

Geraldine "Shirley" Peterson

Geraldine “Shirley” Peterson, known to most simply as Mom or Grandma Shirley, passed away at home in Durant Canyon at the age of 95, surrounded by family.

Shirley grew up in Butte during the Depression. When her mother became a single parent, Shirley helped raise her younger brothers, and she always credited her mother, Ruth, with teaching her how to get through hard times. In those early years, Columbia Gardens offered her a place of hope and fun. She never stopped talking about the summer days she spent there with childhood friends, especially in the little white playhouse.

She played French horn in the high school band, which once took her all the way to the Rose Parade in Pasadena, a long way from home for a Butte girl. In 1948, the same year she graduated, she married the love of her life, William “Bill” Peterson. The newlyweds ran the restaurant at Henry’s Service Station until construction of the interstate put it out of business. Then, as any sensible couple would, they bought 1,000 head of sheep. Their life in Durant Canyon began in a wall tent; when winter became harsh, they moved in with Bill’s parents while they built their home.

Shirley had always said she wanted to marry a rancher and raise a dozen children. She got her rancher, then beat her own goal with a baker’s dozen: eleven girls and two boys. They kept adding rooms as the family grew. Bill’s mother, Vera, was a tremendous help in raising the kids, and Shirley spoke of her often. Somehow, every one of those thirteen children grew up certain they were her favorite.

Shirley had a quick wit, an artistic flair and could do a little of everything. She cooked, sewed, cut hair for half the neighborhood, and patched more jeans than anyone could count. She and Bill loved to pile the kids into the station wagon or Suburban for drives and picnics or gather family and friends for sledding or a game of baseball. Life on the ranch was a flurry of activity, with Shirley at the center of it, shopping and cooking for brandings, hunting camp, and family events. As the years passed and grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived, she was always available to pitch in to help and never missed an event or special occasion.

Her kitchen, with its enormous table, was the heart of the family. Life at the ranch happened around that table: hot coffee, games, meals, and long conversations. A plate of her famous peanut butter fingers was always close by, and there was always room for one more neighbor or friend.

Lunch was a daily tradition. Her sons, Hank and Jay, arrived each day along with the grandsons, and Shirley made sure it was waiting for them, even on the days she had to recruit someone else to cook. Hank stopped by throughout the day, offering Shirley a helping hand or just good company.

Shirley’s grandkids could count on a hug and a little whispered gibberish in their ears. Her children could count on her advice. She came from a generation that didn’t openly show emotion, and she seemed to cry only when she laughed. Her many trips to the grocery store eventually led her to ExerDance, a group that became her lunch dates, domino rivals, and dear

friends. At home, games of dominoes with her daughters were often played by “Shirley’s rules.” She lived well by two mottos: “You got to keep moving” and “Everything in moderation.”

Thanks to the loving care of her daughters, especially Jenny and Gayle; Lauri’s frequent stays; and Hank’s quiet, steady presence, Shirley was able to remain at home through the end of her life. Her hospice nurse, Riley Gonzalez, cared for her for months and, like so many others, came to see her as “everyone’s mom.”

Shirley was preceded in death by Bill, her husband of 62 years; her mother, Ruth Sullivan; her brothers, Dale and Jerry Williams; her brother-in-law, Art Peterson; her beloved son, Jay; her Niece, Mardi Williams and her son-in-law, Dale King. She is survived by her twelve children, 21 grandchildren, and 32 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; her sister-in-law, Janie Williams; and nephews, Danny and Gary Williams, and niece Cindy Williams, and their mother, Dorothy Williams.

When asked what she considered her greatest gift to her children, Shirley didn’t hesitate: “My greatest gift to all of you was each other.”

She gave generously. And in each other, her family will always have her.

Shirley’s Legacy

Connie King and her late husband, Dale Ellen and Wayne Allen Lauri and Mike Gurnett — Garrett and Ashli Gurnett with Sloane and Graham; Libby and Dalton Tamcke with Etta, Huck, and Jhett Billie and Scott Reynolds — Katie and Brandon Whitaker with Sidney, Sara, and Shea; Sam and Melissa Reynolds with Gus, Pete, Clyde, Ike, and Tilly Vicki Buckley — Jake Buckley; Jared Buckley; Jessie and Pierce Pendleton with Marlee and Myla Susan and Clint LaRue — Levi and Kileigh Knott with Leah, Claire, and Henry; Jeremy and Jamie Knott with Anthony and Avery; Cassie and Ryan Fallang with Ella and Joey Hank and Maggie Peterson — Emily Peterson; Abby and Chris Brown with Thea and Wrenley Holly Christensen — Rusty Christensen with Rowan and Collins; Carly Christensen Judy and Sam Davis — Kyle and Echo Davis with Kali; Lexi and Will Poell with Lucy Beth Peterson and her late husband, Jay — Hailey Peterson with Reid and Clayton; Justin and Bailey Peterson; Ty Peterson with Briar Lisa and Russ Scherman — Mami and Kaleb Ferriter with Weston; Nate Scherman Gayle Peterson Jenny Peterson

The family suggests memorials in honor of Shirely be made to the Tri-County Fair, PO Box 149, Deer Lodge, MT 59722.

A memorial service celebrating Shirley's life will be held at 11am, Monday, November 2, 2026, at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, 1500 Fairmont Rd, Fairmont, MT 59711. Visitation begins at 10am. A reception will follow at the resort. Following the reception, interment will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 1501 Crackerville Rd., Gregson, MT.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home have been privileged to care for Shirley and her family.

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Leo G BueckersLeo G Bueckers, age 81, of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away on October 16, 2026.Leo will be laid to rest a...
10/24/2026

Leo G Bueckers

Leo G Bueckers, age 81, of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away on October 16, 2026.

Leo will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Deer Lodge, Montana, in the Spring/Summer of 2027 during a private ceremony for his family.

Leo's obituary will be published in the coming days.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home has been privileged to care for Leo and his family.

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Tyler Michael Lee MayerTyler Michael Lee Mayer, age 34, of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away on October 16, 2026. Service...
10/24/2026

Tyler Michael Lee Mayer

Tyler Michael Lee Mayer, age 34, of Deer Lodge, Montana, passed away on October 16, 2026. Services are pending and will be announced as soon as arrangements are finalized. Please check back for complete service details and the obituary.

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Jeremiah Joseph WalstedJeremiah Joseph “JJ” WalstedJeremiah Joseph Walsted passed away peacefully on October 16th at 7:0...
10/21/2026

Jeremiah Joseph Walsted

Jeremiah Joseph “JJ” Walsted

Jeremiah Joseph Walsted passed away peacefully on October 16th at 7:00 p.m. at the Community Hospital of Anaconda, after a long and courageous battle with alcoholism.

JJ was born on May 7, 1981, to Greg and Stacie Walsted in Deer Lodge, Montana. He later moved to Anchorage, Alaska, with his mother, stepfather Al Shaul, and younger brother Josh. There, the boys enjoyed boating, fishing, and many outdoor adventures. At age 12, JJ returned to Montana. He loved playing pool, listening to music, mud bogging, hunting, fishing, dirt biking, camping, cooking (his family’s personal chef), and embracing every aspect of the country lifestyle.

In 2011, JJ met the love of his life, Halie. They celebrated their marriage in 2018 and soon after welcomed the greatest joy of their lives, their daughter, Ivorie Belle Walsted. JJ was a deeply devoted husband and father; he wholeheartedly supported Halie’s dreams and aspirations, always encouraging her business goals without hesitation and stepping up to manage home operations seamlessly, providing her the time to dedicate her full attention to building her venture. Nothing mattered more to him than his "princess," while lovingly dubbing his wife the "queen." He was immensely proud of his girls and took incredible care of their daughter, cherishing every moment with her, treasuring every art project and handmade bracelets, and loving every opportunity to play and teach her new things. JJ also had a huge heart for animals and held a great, lifelong love for his dogs.

Known for his friendliness, inappropriate jokes, and unwavering in his support to those around him. Through years of battling addiction, JJ turned to his faith and found the Lord. In 2020, the family began discovering their Christian faith, becoming devoted testaments to God's love through life's trials. JJ is now in Heaven with our Savior, at complete peace and comfort.

JJ was preceded in death by his father, Greg Walsted; paternal grandparents, Jack and Bonnie Walsted; his maternal grandparents, Lee and Barb Kimball; his cousins, Shane Walsted and Joe Sykes; and his uncle, Foster Walsted.

He is lovingly remembered and celebrated by his wife, Halie Walsted; his daughter, Ivorie Walsted; his mother, Stacie Shaul (Avery Omstead); his stepfather, Al Shaul; his brother, Josh Shaul (Alyssa); his in-laws, Amy (Riche) and Micheal Thomas; brothers-in-law, Zach (Jill) Netherland, Joe (Kailey) Netherland, and Billy Burt; aunts and uncles, Laurie Brown (Art Biseck), Jan Kimball, Leianna Hintz, and Rich Kimball (Tanya); his cousins, Chassity Walsted and Carrie Belle Walsted; his nieces, Stevie and Maggie Netherland, Nataile, CJ, Loralei, and Charlie; his one great-nephew, Waylon; and numerous cousins, 2nd cousins, cherished chosen family members, and friends too numerous to name individually.

CHANGE OF VENUE FOR SERVICE. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 7th at 1pm at the Black Dog Barn in Garrison, Montana. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to local AA or Al-Anon groups, alcohol outreach programs, or Missoula's new walk-in detox clinic. Those wishing to support JJ’s greatest legacy may send gifts for his daughter, Ivorie, or contribute to her savings account at Pioneer State Bank. Meals and other acts of kindness for the family are also deeply appreciated.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Jeremiah and his family.

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Charles R LanesCharles “Chuck” Roy Lanes, 81, had his heavenly adoption finalized on Monday, October 5, 2026, following ...
10/13/2026

Charles R Lanes

Charles “Chuck” Roy Lanes, 81, had his heavenly adoption finalized on Monday, October 5, 2026, following a motorcycle accident. He has gone to his forever home with the Lord.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, and proud United States Navy veteran, Chuck leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, service, and cherished memories.

Born June 17, 1945, to Oscar and Lois Lanes, Chuck grew up in Anaconda, Montana, and attended Anaconda High School. In 1988, he graduated from Trinity Bible College, furthering his lifelong commitment to faith and ministry.

Chuck shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved and supportive wife, Sandi. Together, they built a life centered on faith and family. Although often quiet and reserved, Chuck had a distinctive wit and playful sense of humor that emerged among those closest to him. Whether sharing a joke, offering thoughtful guidance, or simply enjoying time together, he created memories his family and friends will always treasure.

Chuck proudly served in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1971, attaining the rank of Interior Communications Electrician Second Class (IC2). A Vietnam War veteran, he completed two tours of duty aboard Navy destroyers, participating in aircraft carrier screening, coastal operations, and brown-water operations in Vietnam’s inland and coastal waterways. His military service remained a source of lifelong pride and reflected his commitment to duty, honor, and country.

As an ordained minister, Chuck served for 38 years, devoting much of his life to sharing the Gospel and serving others. A true “Fisher of Men,” he welcomed people from all walks of life and lifestyles with an open heart, offering compassion, encouragement, and spiritual guidance.

Chuck served as pastor of Whitehall Assembly of God Church for 15 years, and his ministry extended far beyond the pulpit. He carried forward the construction of the church begun by his first pastor and longtime mentor, whose guidance had played an instrumental role in Chuck’s own calling to ministry. Taking the lead in completing the project, Chuck personally contributed countless hours of labor and craftsmanship. The church stands as a lasting testament to his faith, determination, and dedication to his community.

He was also a skilled electrician and a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) for 36 years. Chuck took great pride in his trade, bringing technical expertise, ingenuity, and a strong work ethic to everything he did.

Outside of his professional and ministerial pursuits, Chuck enjoyed restoring classic cars and was an avid stock car racing enthusiast, frequently attending races in Belgrade, Montana. He also had a lifelong passion for motorcycles, enjoying countless rides and serving as a chaplain on organized motorcycle rides. In that role, he combined his love of riding with his faith and fellowship. He spent his final day doing something he truly loved, enjoying the freedom and peace he found on the open road.

Whatever Chuck undertook, he gave it his all. Whether applying his skilled craftsmanship, solving complex challenges, sharing the Gospel, or building meaningful relationships, he approached every endeavor with purpose, determination, and unwavering commitment. He never believed in doing things halfway, and that devotion was evident in both the work of his hands and the lives he touched.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Sandi Lanes; his children, Bill (Dina) Lanes, Holli (Jeremy) Bennett, and Justin Lanes; his grandchildren, Dawson (Brinleigh) Lanes, BreeAnne (Jesse) Lamb, Dallon and Brooklynn Lanes, Joshua (Kari) Parrow, Jacob (Makayla) Parrow, Caleb, Christian, Collin and Crystal Lanes; and his great-grandchildren, Ashlyn Schmidt, Daltyn Schmidt, Aniyah Parrow, Jayleigh and Everleigh Lanes.

He also leaves behind his two beloved beagles, AwnJa and Aarne, who brought companionship, affection, and joy to his and Sandi’s home.

He is also survived by his brothers, Oscar “Butch” Lanes, Duane Lanes, and Carl Lanes; and his sister, Charlotte Cooper. Chuck shared a particularly close bond with his siblings and many nieces and nephews, cherishing the relationships, laughter, and memories they shared throughout his life. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Lois Lanes; his brother, Terry Lanes; his sister, Susan Mehelich; and his great-grandson, Dyllan Murray.

Family, friends, veterans, and fellow motorcycle riders are welcome to join in honoring Chuck and celebrating his life.

A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held Friday, October 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Whitehall Assembly of God Church, 61 st Street East, Whitehall, Montana. A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

A graveside service with military honors will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison, Montana.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bill Lanes, Justin Lanes, Jeremy Bennett, Joshua Parrow, Jacob Parrow, Dawson Lanes, Dallon Lanes, and Caleb Lanes.

In lieu of flowers or food, the family requests that memorial donations be made in honor of Chuck Lanes to any of the following:

Glacier Bible Camp Snack Stand Fund

Montana Ministry Network 2147 Overland Avenue, Suite 100 Billings, MT 59102

Please designate donations for the Glacier Bible Camp Snack Stand Fund.

Patriot Guard Riders honors fallen heroes and supports their families through memorial missions and military honors.

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/help-forward-our-mission

For those who wish to provide direct support, memorial contributions may also be made to Chuck’s wife, Sandi, to help ease the financial burdens and unexpected expenses following his passing. A fund has been set up at Southwest Montana Community Federal Credit Union under the name "Chuck Lanes Memorial Fund," Whitehall Branch, 9 S Main Street, Whitehall, MT 59759. (406) 287-5496. Donations may be sent directly to the bank or given to the family and made out to the memorial fund.

“From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.” — Psalm 113:3

Chuck often spoke of the western sky, where the sun sets behind the mountains. It was among those mountains that his earthly journey came to an end. His family takes comfort in his enduring faith and the promise of eternal life.

His legacy lives on in the family he raised, the church he built, the lives he touched, and the love he leaves behind.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Charles and his family.

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Betty Jane KrummBetty Krumm peacefully took her last breath on the evening of September 25, 2026 at her home in Anaconda...
10/08/2026

Betty Jane Krumm

Betty Krumm peacefully took her last breath on the evening of September 25, 2026 at her home in Anaconda, MT surrounded by family. After experiencing a stroke in May, she fought valiantly for and made significant progress in recovery, until she went with the angels. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend who is already missed immensely.

On March 5, 1941, Elizabeth (Betty) Jane Drescher was born in Anaconda as the youngest daughter of five children to Helen Sincheck Drescher and Carl T. Drescher. Betty had two sisters Collene and Loretta and two brothers, John and Carl Jr. Her father died in 1950 when Betty was only 9 years old leaving Helen to raise her and her siblings independently. Through this experience, Betty learned by her mother’s example what it meant to be self-reliant, resourceful and strong.

Betty attended Bryan, Lincoln, Anaconda Junior and Anaconda Senior High School where she met the love of her life Jack A. Krumm. After accepting his proposal by a handwritten letter while he was on military dispatch, Betty and Jack were married at St. Pete’s Church on July 16, 1960. Shortly after, they started their family and raised four wonderful children Tammy, Tom, Tim and Amy.

Betty always had a remarkable work ethic. In her youth she worked at Washoe Theatre and the A&W. Later she cooked at the Copper Club and for many years she worked alongside her husband at the Elk’s Lodge in Anaconda, cooking and serving Friday night dinners for many community events. Her greatest talent however, existed in her baking. In 1972 she was able to extend this incredible gift with the Anaconda Community and the Big Sky when she and Jack purchased June’s Pasty Shop from June Vuicich. Together, they created a true labor of love, peeling each potato and making every delicious pasty by hand. Through her vigor and skill, June’s became a family business that would endure over a 40 year legacy.

One of Mom/Grandma’s trademarks was her pristine kept home full of collectables. She adorned each room with one of her mother’s handmade doilies, a fresh candy dish and her magnificent menagerie of precious moments. Gram always made sure the fridge was stocked with snacks and her favorite… Pepsi for all the kids.

Family was ultimately Mom/Gram’s greatest joy in life. Although she highly valued her independence and privacy she made exceptions for both to be present for all of her grandkids’ and great grandkids' special events and sporting games. She enjoyed going shopping at Hobby Lobby, TJ Maxx and Walmart, attending family picnics at Washoe Park, “get-togethers” at Fairmont, and serene car rides. One thing she immensely enjoyed was her daily visit with her neighbor and best friend Sherrie.

Mom/Grandma Betty, spent her last few days surrounded by family, sitting in the sunshine and viewing the beauty of the fall on a car ride with her favorite beverage ... .a nice cold Pepsi. She giggled every time she took a sip and said “oh that’s so good! Go get yourself one!” Her generosity and care for her loved ones never faltered.

Mom/ Grandma Betty’s will to live was extraordinary. A three time cancer survivor of breast cancer and leukemia, she bravely fought for and earned every precious moment we were blessed to have her. She has forever inspired us by her phenomenal will, strength and perseverance. She was encompassed by love in her last breath, and it is in love she is forever remembered.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, siblings, mother in law and father in law George and Mary Krumm, in laws, Collene (Ron) Eliason, John (Doody) Drescher, Loretta (Paul) Barrett, Carl (Esther) Drescher, Delores (Richard) McAuliffe, Bonnie (Charles) McLean, Bob (Doris) Krumm, nieces and nephews.

Betty’s legacy lives on in her children Tammy (Steve) Gates, Tom (Jeanne) Krumm, Tim (Jenny) Krumm, Amy (Ken) Blume, grandchildren Tegan (Garrett) Thompson, Tashia Gates (Isaac Marble) Tyler (Ronelle) Gates, Trys Gates, Korey (Russell) Rivers, McKenah (Pat) Duncan, Kelley (Andie) Krumm, Ethan Blume (Libbby Jorgensen), Cheylyn Krumm, Bridger Krumm (McKenzie Chiddix), Brennen Blume and Bryley Krumm,15 great grandchildren and her best friend Sherrie.

A public Celebration of Life joint service for Betty and Jack will take place on Saturday October 24, 2026 at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort at 1:00pm. Betty and Jack’s family welcome all friends and well wishers to join us at the service and reception to follow in their honor.

Condolences for Betty's family may be left at www.longfellowfinneganriddle.com

Memorials may be sent to: Camp Mak-A-Dream, 727 Camp Mak-A-Dream Rd, Gold Creek, MT 59733 or to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude PLace, Memphis, TN 38105

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Frederick "Fred" Harry VerlanicOn September 17, 2026, Frederick H. Verlanic joined his beloved wife, Bernice, in heaven....
09/29/2026

Frederick "Fred" Harry Verlanic

On September 17, 2026, Frederick H. Verlanic joined his beloved wife, Bernice, in heaven. Fred was born on December 5, 1942, in Anaconda, MT, to Lloyd and Gladys Verlanic. He had two older sisters, Dorothy and Shirley. Fred attended various schools in Anaconda and graduated in 1961 from Anaconda High School.

After high school, Fred joined the United States Air Force, beginning a long military career that ended with his retirement from the National Guard as a Command Sergeant Major.

Fred married the love of his life, Bernice M. Kopp, in 1963 in Anaconda, MT. They had two children, Kamala Verlanic and Bruce Verlanic.

Fred attended the University of Montana after his honorable discharge from the Air Force. He graduated with a Business Management degree in 1973. Fred and Bernice moved back to Deer Lodge so he could begin a 32-year career at Montana State Prison as a purchase and supply agent. He retired in 2005.

Besides Fred’s love for his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was very proud of his military service. He belonged to various veterans’ organizations including the VFW, the American Legion, and the Honor Guard. He was very active in his church, the Immaculate Conception parish. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Elks.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bernice; son Bruce; his dad, Lloyd Verlanic; his mom and stepfather, Gladys and Patrick (Pudgo) Laughlin; sister and brother-in-law Dorothy and Jack Young; and his grandson, Alec Tolon.

He is survived by his daughter Kamala Verlanic and son-in-law Dave Ball; his sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Duane Colwell; brother-in-law, Nick Kopp; and grandchildren Trevor Denny, Rochelle Verlanic Anderson, Bridgett Verlanic, Alexandria Verlanic, Chris Ball and Marina Ball. Also surviving are his five great-grandchildren, Alaiya, Jax, Braydon, Addilyn and Oaklynn; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church, October 10 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow for both Fred and Bernice at the Hillcrest Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at the Elks Lodge in Deer Lodge. Donations can be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Frederick and his family.

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