Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services

01/08/2026

Karen Ann Schwabenland

Karen Ann Schwabenland, 70, of Anaconda, passed on January 6, 2026.

No services are planned at this time.

Please visit below to offer condolences to the family or share a memory of Karen.

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

View Karen Ann Schwabenland's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/05/2026

Deanna Fitzpatrick

Deanna Farmer Fitzpatrick, 86, passed away peacefully in her home at Georgetown Lake surrounded by family. Deanna was born in Waynesville North Carolina on October 25, 1939, to Grady Carlton and Katie Bell Farmer. She was one of three children- 2 brothers, Jim and Jack Farmer. Deanna lived in Waynesville until she was nineteen years old.

Before moving west she completed her laboratory technician training in Memphis, TN. She then made the move to Deer Lodge where she worked at the Deer Lodge Clinic. The following year she met the love of her life, Francis (Bud) Arnette Fitzpatrick. They fell in love instantly and waited no time to get married and start a family. They married August 6th, 1960, at the Deer Lodge Catholic Church. The two then moved to Anaconda where she received a job at St. Ann's Hospital as a lab technician. Deanna retired from Community Hospital of Anaconda in 2004. Bud and Deanna were blessed with three children Kathy (Dave) Mason, Tony Fitzpatrick, and Buddy (Carole) Fitzpatrick. They raised their children on east fourth street in Anaconda.

Deanna was a compassionate and devoted mother. They moved to Georgetown Lake in 1990 after raising their children. Deanna enjoyed spending time with her wonderful husband hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, camping, and being with her family and friends. Some of her happiest moments were spent outdoors with her husband and children. Deanna loved hunting with her family and hunted all the way up till she was 75. She also enjoyed her "fur babies" where at one time she owned five dogs. She loved cooking and baking for everyone around her. Her family will always remember her unique southern style of cooking. Bud and Deanna shared 65 wonderful years together filled with love, laughter, and many adventures. She has numerous grandchildren- Bobbi Lorengo, Trisha (Corey) Heffernan, Scott (Brittany) Lorengo, Kellie (Ethan) Green, Megan Shields and Cory Shields. She also had 12 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and several family members

along with many good friends. She is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the amazing nurses and support staff at St. James Hospital Cath Lab for their dedicated and compassionate care of Deanna over the last couple years. Another big thanks to the Community Hospital of Anaconda hospice nurses. Their care and kindheartedness have made all the difference.

At her request no public services are planned at this time

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

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01/05/2026

Daniel Joseph Hess

Daniel Joseph Hess, of Anaconda, passed on January 4, 2026.

No services are planned at this time.

Please visit below to offer condolences to the family or share a memory of Daniel.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Crematory have been privileged to care for Daniel and his family.

View Daniel Joseph Hess's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/05/2026

Doris "Dori" Faye LaTray

On Christmas morning, my little sister Dori LaTray left us to join our family and Creator in Heaven. Dori had been fighting breast cancer since 2022, six months ago we were told she was in remission. Only for the last scan to show an aggressive reoccurrence. To lose her so quickly after the news was and is a shock. Dori was one of the best hearted people I have ever known. She cared about everyone else and never herself.

Born June 22, 1957 to Don and Maxine LaTray, Dori spent most of her life helping care for her younger sister, Delinda, who she lost in February 2025.

She was preceded by parents Don LaTray and Maxine LaTray. Sisters Delinda Joy LaTray, Diana Joy and Barbara LaTray.

Survivors are sister Donna Dickson and Donnie Dickson, her nephew and her little “Baby Girl.” Also brother-in-law Jerome Joy.

Special thanks to Dr. Heckle and the Cancer Center, Montana Mental Health and Barb Sabo for always being there.

Services will be here in Anaconda on January 10 at 11 a.m. at the Mormon Church. Cemetery to follow.

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

01/05/2026

Willene Pond

Hazel Willene Pond, known lovingly as Willene, passed away on December 30, 2025, in Billings, Montana, surrounded by her family. She was 88 years old.

Willene was born on May 8, 1937, in Anaconda, Montana, to William and Hazel Brinton. After graduating, she traveled to Seattle to complete secretarial training. Upon returning to Montana, she worked as a telephone operator at the Montana Hotel, where she met her first husband, Gerald Patterson. One of her favorite stories was traveling to New York City to purchase her wedding dress, an experience she always described as truly special.

Gerald and Willene welcomed two sons, Mark and Nathan, who completed their family.

Willene later worked as a secretary for the psychiatrists at Galen and Montana State Hospitals, a position she deeply enjoyed and took great pride in. It was during her time working there that she met her second husband, Aubrey Pond.

She was a devoted member of Hope Lutheran Church, where her faith and church community were very important to her. Willene was known for her love of simple joys—especially ice cream sundaes and Dr. Pepper, which friends and family often brought when visiting her. She cherished holidays and time spent with her grandchildren, attending birthday parties when they were young, and she especially loved to dance, always having a wonderful time at weddings and anniversary celebrations.

Willene had a tender heart for animals and a special fondness for cats, or “kitties,” as she liked to call them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Hazel Brinton; her first husband, Gerald Patterson; and her second husband, Aubrey Pond.

She is survived by her sons, Mark (Mary Ann) Patterson and Nathan (Sherrie) Patterson; grandchildren Steven (Jessica), Brian (Gina), Matthew (Alexis), Alyssa, and Jacob; great-grandchildren Sydney, Ainslee, Natalie, Justin, and Henry. She is also survived by her special cousins Errol (Betty Ann) Eileraas, along with other extended family members and many dear friends.

A funeral service will be held on January 8, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church. Burial will follow, with a light lunch back at the church afterward.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Hope Lutheran Church.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hope Lutheran Church and Pastor Judy, as well as Aspen Meadows Nursing Home and St. John’s Hospice, for their compassionate care of Willene and her family during this difficult time.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home has been privileged to care for Hazel and her family.

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01/05/2026

Michael Duffey

Michael “Mike” Duffey, 60, passed away at 1:34pm on January 1, 2026. He was surrounded by loved ones at St. Patrick’s hospital in Missoula MT.

Mike was born on October 19, 1965, in Bakersfield California to Wesley Duffey and DeEtte (Jensen) Duffey. He grew up in small town Anaconda where he raised hell with his 10 siblings. After graduating high school, he became a long-haul truck driver with his best friend Ricky and even took his daughter Samantha and stepson Travis on the road with him often. He loved Harley Davidson and his bike club, he enjoyed taking trips all over on his bike with his partner. He would find any excuse to be on his bike. He loved spending time with his daughter, whether watching football on Sunday or just going out for a bite to eat. He was always working on cars with his brother Roy. He also enjoyed collecting guns, fishing, and camping. Mike truly believed in family bonds and cared so deeply for all of his family. He was so proud to come from such a big one.

He is proceeded in death by his mother and father DeEtte and Wesley Duffey, His sisters - Billy Jean Mapes, Peggy Mapes, and Maria Mapes, his brother Earl Mapes, and his best friend Richard “Ricky” Fisher.

He is survived by his partner of 17 years Rolanda Smathers, his daughter Samantha Duffey and her wife Stacey Duffey, his son Curtis Duffey and his wife Chrystal Duffey and their daughter, Mike’s only granddaughter, Taylyn Duffey. As well as his brothers Roy Duffey and Larry Duffey, his sisters Terrie Duffey, Linda Duffey, and Shirley O’Loughlin. He’s also survived by his 4 stepchildren Rachel, Crystal, Travis, and Kevin and so many beloved nieces and nephews.

Mike was so loved and will be greatly missed by so many people. We invite anyone who would like to attend, please join us for his Celebration of life on January 18, 2026, at 1:00pm at the VFW in Anaconda MT.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Crematory have been privileged to care for Michael and his family.

View Michael Duffey's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/05/2026

Helen Julia Thomas

Helen J. Thomas, 85, passed away at her home in Anaconda, MT on January 1, 2026, surrounded by family.

Helen was born on December 13, 1940, the oldest of three children to Daniel McCarthy and Sylvia (White) McCarthy Stevens. Daniel passed away when Helen was a young child. Walter Stevens married her mother and was a wonderful stepfather to Helen and her siblings. Helen was joined by sister Diane Saffell and brother Jim McCarthy.

The family lived on Fourth Street near family and friends. She attended St. Paul’s school through junior high school and graduated from Anaconda Central High School in 1958. Following graduation, Helen attended Carroll College earning her Registered Nursing degree. Helen returned to Anaconda and married her high school sweetheart, Gene Thomas on September 30, 1961. They were married for over 64 years.

Helen worked at Montana State Hospital as a Registered Nurse and then a nursing supervisor for over 33 years. She later volunteered on the involuntary medications review board for the hospital.

Helen and Gene had two children, John and Karen and later welcomed daughter-in-law, Sharon and son-in-law, Vernon.

Helen never missed her kids’ football, basketball game or downhill ski race. She learned to ski at Wraith Ski Hill where the family spent many weekends together with family and friends. Helen enjoyed many family vacations including annual trips to Yellowstone with Gene. She and Gene loved to travel to visit Diane and Bernie Saffel, John and Sharon and Karen and Vernon.

Helen enjoyed her time with family and friends, especially her Canasta friends. She enjoyed her rides around town and to Georgetown Lake. If you were on her route, know that you were in her heart. She enjoyed hosting “garage parties”, and her sweetie pies were the best. Helen enjoyed going to “garage parties” at Cindy and Terry Vermeire’s, particularly during football games, so she could hear the excitement and dinners at Dan Thomas’ house. Helen’s favorite meal was John Durkin’s pork chops.

Helen was a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. She lovingly earned the nickname “Mean ol’ Helen” from the men’s AOH and wore this nickname proudly.

Helen was well-known for telling family and friends to call her for a ride home no matter the time of day if they were enjoying a night out. She answered many calls without judgement.

Helen was an active member of the Anaconda Catholic Community where she consistently attended mass and provided desserts for bereavement lunches. Helen was adamant the family attended church, even when at Disney Land.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents and stepfather, brother Jim McCarthy (Nancy). Helen is survived by her husband of 64 years, Gene, children John (Sharon) of Helena and Karen (Vernon) of Arco, Idaho, sister Diane (Bernie) Saffell, numerous nieces and nephews and good friends Sharon and Don Nelson.

Funeral services will be held on January 13, 2026, and will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Anaconda, MT. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery with a luncheon at Holy Family Church to follow.

Donations can be made to the Anaconda Catholic Community, the AOH Carroll College scholarship fund, or the donor’s choice.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home has been privileged to care for Helen and her family.

View Helen Julia Thomas's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/30/2025

Ronald Edward Collins

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our father, Ronald Edward Collins.

Born August 10, 1944 to Arthur and Margaret June Collins in Glendale, California. Shortly after completing his high school education, Ron joined the United States Navy. While stationed in San Diego, Ron would find his lifetime sweetheart, Mary Jane and take her as his bride until their last breath. Ron and Jane would be blessed with six children, thirty one grandchildren (including spouses) and sixteen great-grandchildren. Ron was a very proud grandpa and a lifetime of stories will keep his memories alive.

Ron will be remembered for his passion for gun restoration, and the many hunting and fishing stories, whether they be true or not.

Ron is preceded in death by his wife, Jane. Parents, Arthur Collins and June (Collins) Saurer. His sister Caroline, brother Richard Collins, and stepfather Ted Saurer.

He is survived by his six children, Art (Audrey) Collins, Steve (Julie) Collins, Guy Collins, Sheryl (Scott) Fitzpatrick, David (Jennifer) Collins, Diane (Mike) Williams, 31 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren.

Services for Ron will be held Friday, January 9th at the Elks Lodge at 11:30 am with a luncheon to follow. We ask for your presence in remembering our father and grandpa. A private family burial will be held later that morning where our father and mother will be laid to rest together.

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

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12/30/2025

Sharon Harris

Sharon (Pickett) Harris passed away in Anaconda, Montana, on December 29, 2025, surrounded by family. Sharon was born in Anaconda on February 1, 1944, to Robert and Helen Pickett. She married Gene Harris in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on April 29, 1963. Together they became parents to three children: Gary, Julie, and Cory.

Sharon was proud to be from Anaconda and spent nearly her entire life there, aside from two years when she and Gene lived in Missoula. After losing Cory at just six years old, Sharon carried that heartbreak with remarkable strength. She transformed her grief into purpose, helping to create a support group for families who had endured similar losses and opening her home to foster children alongside Gene.

Sharon was known as the Snow Cone Lady around Anaconda, as she operated a mobile snow cone cart that catered to the residents of Anaconda on hot summer days and around the softball and baseball fields during the evenings. She also worked for the Anaconda Public Schools, where she helped in the lunchroom and as a playground aide.

Family was the center of Sharon’s world. She cherished every moment spent with those she loved, and nothing brought her more joy than bragging about her children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren.

Sharon is preceded in death by her son Cory, infant grandson Ryan Cook, her parents, four sisters, and two brothers, along with her many in‑laws from the Harris side of the family. She is survived by her husband, Gene, at the family home; her son Gary; daughter Julie (Terry) Jennings; and foster daughter Amanda (Corey) Snowden; grandchildren Corey Cook, Jordan Cook (Justin Bristol), Derek (Britnie) Cook, Kaedon (Tara) Cook, Christina (Ted) Berg, August Snowden, and Autumn Snowden; as well as fifteen great‑grandchildren.

Sharon never whispered an opinion in her life. If she thought it, you heard it—usually twice… and that bold, unapologetic spirit now lives on in the stories we’ll hold close, retell, and smile about for years to come.

If you choose to remember Sharon, donations in her name can be made to the Project Care Food Pantry in Anaconda (PO Box 1280, Anaconda, MT 59711), or simply show kindness to a child or an animal—a reflection of Sharon’s own passion for making sure every one of them felt cared for and had the best opportunities possible.

The family would like to thank the Community Nursing Home of Anaconda for their dedicated care of Sharon, Community Hospital of Anaconda for their years of caring for Sharon through her setbacks, and Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home for their attention to the family after Sharon’s passing.

A memorial will be held in the spring in Anaconda.

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

View Sharon Harris's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/30/2025

Rhonda Lee Cochrane

Rhonda Lee Cochrane (Barnes), age 70, peacefully entered into eternal rest, with her daughter by her side, to be with her Lord on December 26, 2025. A proud native of Anaconda, Montana, Rhonda lived a life marked by faith, resilience, service, and love.

Rhonda was born to John and Marlene Barnes, she was the first born of three children, followed by her siblings Bill and Donna. At age 11, she was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, a challenge she faced with remarkable determination and courage; an early testament to the resilience that would define her life.

In 1972, Rhonda married Jack Hook and together they welcomed their daughter Gerri Butler. In 2002, she married her beloved husband, Terry Cochrane, and together they built a life rooted in commitment to each other and to their community. Rhonda faced profound change in 1989 when she lost her vision; however, she met this challenge with remarkable courage. After attending the Montana Association for the Blind’s Summer Orientation Program in 1991, she discovered that blindness was not a barrier to a full and meaningful life, it was the beginning of a new calling.

From that moment on, Rhonda devoted herself to empowering others who were blind or visually impaired. She became a pillar of the Montana Association for the Blind, serving on the Board of Directors, as President, and as State Secretary, and returning year after year to work at the Summer Orientation Program. Her passion was unmistakable, she was fully committed to helping others through her leadership and compassion, she touched countless lives and inspired others to believe in their own potential.

Yet Rhonda’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who cherished time with her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandson. In her final months, she was lovingly cared for by her grandson, Josh, whose devotion and kindness brought her comfort and peace. Her faith found expression in everyday acts of kindness. One of her greatest gifts was teaching Sunday School at her church and crocheting baby blankets for newborns at the local hospital, each stitch a gift of love. Rhonda had a rare gift for listening with her whole heart. Through her quiet presence and caring advice, she helped countless people find comfort, clarity, and the strength to move forward.

Rhonda is survived by her husband, Terry; his son, James Cochrane; her daughter, Gerri Butler; her brother Bill Barnes (Rhonda); her sister Donna Wengel (Bob); six grandchildren, Josh Hook, Madison Butler, Noah Butler, Colton, Makenna and Kennady Cochrane and one great-grandson, Ace Hook. She leaves behind a legacy of gentle wisdom, unwavering faith, and service to others. Her life stands as a testament to the power of hope and the difference one loving heart can make. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

A celebration of life, honoring Rhonda, will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10:30 am at Gateway Christian Fellowship, following by a committal and prayer at Mount Olivet at 11:30 am, luncheon will follow at the church. Family and friends are invited to join in remembering and celebrating her life and faith.

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

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12/30/2025

Michael "Mike" Alan Fode

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Michael “Mike” Alan Fode on December 25, 2025, at the age of 58. He was surrounded by his loved ones. Michael was born on December 11, 1967, to Earl and Lena Fode in Anaconda, MT. He was 1 of 16 children.

After graduating from high school, Mike worked odd jobs. He worked for Leo Nichols on the potato farm. He worked at AFFCO for many years but had to retire early for health reasons. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to hunt and fish.

Mike loved to spend time with his nephew, Brandon Gwin, Brandon’s wife, Brittany, and their son, Bowmen, camping and exploring the mountains on his side-by-side and the 4-wheelers. He was a big fan of Buffalo Bills and the Montana Griz and loved to watch wrestling. Mike was fortunate to spend a significant amount of time over the last several months with his youngest sibling, Brent, creating close bond between them.

He is survived by his daughter, Candace; son, Jeremy; grandson, Carson; sisters, Peggy and Tom, Cheryl, MaryLou and Dave, Susan and John, Julie, Janet and Tom; and brothers, Alvin and Zelma, Earl and Margaret, Mark and Teresa and Brent.

Michael is preceded in death by his beloved mother and father; sisters, Linda and Karen, Rita and Brenda; brother, Kevin; and lots of nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Mike’s Life will be held at 2pm, Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Church of Christ, 1 Stumptown Road, Anaconda. Memorials in honor of Mike are suggested to the foundation of the donor’s choice.

Please share memories of Mike or offer condolences for his family.

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

View Michael "Mike" Alan Fode's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/22/2025

Carolyn Anita Harris

Carolyn A. Harris, 75, of Anaconda, passed on December 19, 2025.

No services are planned at this time.

Please visit below to offer condolences to the family or share a memory of Carolyn.

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

View Carolyn Anita Harris's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.