Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services

02/25/2026

Tanna Louise Bebo

Tanna Louise Bebo

April 11, 1944 to February 23, 2026

Tanna passed away at home peacefully surrounded with her loving family. Her sudden passing has left a void in her family that cannot be filled.

Tanna married the love of her life, Paul Bebo, on July 2, 1962, in Salmon, Idaho. They were married 63 years, together sharing many life experiences from love, family, children, and joy.

She was a beloved mother to George (Bernadette) Bebo from Graham, Washington, and Sherri Bebo from Butte, Montana. Tanna was a devoted mother to George and Sherri, they were her pride and joy. She loved her children and they felt the love and support she provided.

Tanna was born in Anaconda, Montana, to parents Harry "Ki" and Rose Nazer. She attended Anaconda Senior High School and graduated in 1962.

Tanna is preceded in death by her parents, Harry "Ki" and Rose Nazer; sister, Marlene Sanders; aunt, Norine Pellegrini; grandmother, Carlotta Poli; uncles, Mike and Louie Poli; and in-laws, Paul and Francis Bebo.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30am, Monday, March 9, 2026, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 401 Alder St., Anaconda, with a reception to follow in the Hunthausen Center of Holy Family Church, 217 W Pennsylvania St. In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Tanna are suggested to a foundation of the donor's choosing.

Visit below to offer condolences to the family or to share a memory of Tanna.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home is privileged to care for Tana and her family.

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02/21/2026

John Walter Baird

John Walter Baird passed away on February 20, 2026, in Anaconda, Montana, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. John was born in Butte, Montana, on June 27, 1946, the third child and only son of Walter and Irene Baird. With his parents and sisters Beverly ("Sweet") and Sue, he grew up in Centerville and graduated from Butte High School. In 1964, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War on the USS Davidson. After being stationed in several ports, he was honorably discharged in 1970. While residing in Butte, John met and married his perfect counterpart, Cheryl. They were married in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on May 24, 1976, and would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in just three months. John owned JB Furnace Service after retiring from Montana Power as a gas serviceman for Anaconda and the surrounding area. Prior to his transfer to Anaconda in 1989, he was the West Line Welder while residing in Absarokee and then Bridger, Montana. In 1998, Montana Power recognized John for achieving 20 years without a lost time accident. In every job or endeavor, John was well respected for his work ethic and skill. His special combination of honesty and wit earned him friends everywhere he went. Even though there are too many close friends to name, they're unlikely to ever forget all their good times with John. Over the years, John's passion for the outdoors led him to pursue many activities, and he excelled at skiing, hiking, bicycling, and fly fishing. In years past, he enjoyed fishing Montana’s rivers on his raft. He inspired his friends and family to become more active. In later years, John took up woodworking and was extremely particular in the unique items he created. Being an avid reader gave John a depth of subjects to discuss – name nearly any subject, and John had probably become a semi-expert of his own accord, though he was always humble in his knowledge. John is survived by his wife, Cheryl, who became his “angel” throughout his medical battles. He will also be dearly missed by his sister Sue (Mel) Gardner, sister-in-law Carol (Kevin) Reed, brother-in-law Steve (Tammy) Wham, nephews Ron (Tammi) Gardner, John (Lydia) Gardner, Joe (Laurie) Schwartzenberger, Daniel Kindred, Derek Wham, and Dustin Wham. Nieces include Beth (Jerry) Sullivan, Julie (Ted) Connors, Krystal Kindred, and Jenna (Sam) Dennis, as well as several great-nephews and great-nieces. “Uncle John” was a common phrase heard in his family. John was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Lyle and Irene Lasky Baird and his sister Beverly “Sweet” Schwartzenberger. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. All of John's friends are invited to gather in remembrance of him on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 3-5 p.m. at the Longfellow Funeral Home in Anaconda, Montana.May “Whistlin’ John” rest in peace. We are certain he is now carrying a happy tune somewhere in Heaven with his buddy Benny Corrigan.

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02/20/2026

Analee Nelson

Analee Nelson (Drago) passed away peacefully at the age of 101 years old on the morning of February 16, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

Analee was born on August 5, 1924 to Joseph and Lena Drago. She was one of nine children. Her parents taught Analee to work hard, love all people, and to always do whatever you could do help others. Analee was always giving to others in need.

In July, 1942 Analee married her high school sweetheart, Delmar Robert Nelson. They continued to live in Pekin, IL for a few years before moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico. There they raised their 5 children.

Analee was a dedicated wife, mother, aunt and grandma.

The most important things to her were God and her family. Analee would not only share words of her faith and belief in God but she walked it. Showing everyone that knew her of Gods love everyday.

She loved to cook dinners and invite everyone over. The love she had for her family and friends was seen with every meal she made. Time spent with her grandchildren, tea parties with her great grandchildren always showed us how to live and love. And most of all, to believe in Jesus.

After a long 33 years of waiting, she is once again with her “Del” and 4 of her 5 children, Gary, Cheryl, Robert (Bobby), and Greg.

Analee is survived by her daughter, Kim, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service for Analee will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026 at French’s Funeral Home, Albuquerque, New Mexico followed by interment at Sandia Memorial Gardens.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle has been privileged to care for Analee and her family.

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02/18/2026

Edward John Schmidt

Edward J. Schmidt was born to Julia Mihelic and Edward Schmidt on June 28,1943. Growing up in Butte and Anaconda, he graduated from Anaconda High School in 1961. Edward worked at the Anaconda Company for 21 years, retiring in1983. Following retirement, he graduated from Montana State University in1989 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. He worked at Aware and Riverdale as social work aide. Edward loved people, and went out of his way to serve others in unique ways.

An avid weather observer, Edward maintained his own weather station, recording daily data. He was an aquatic fish enthusiast, maintaining indoor aquariums and an outdoor pond year around. He was an amateur horticulturalist, caring for plants and trees in his home, yard, and greenhouse. He beautified his neighborhood by planting and nurturing sidewalk trees. A walk with his beloved dog, Dutch, was part of his daily routine. Edward had a strong religious faith, and practiced his beliefs in every aspect of his daily life.

Edward was preceded in death by his mother Julia Brown and his dogs, Ditto and Romeo. He is survived by his siblings: Julie (Wes) Bermel, George (John Kistner) Brown, John (LuEllen) Brown, Yvonne (Matt) Vucurovich, Charlotte (Phil) Davenport, Diana Olsheisver . He is remembered by nieces, nephews, and relatives. Private family services will be held. A reception honoring his life will be held on February 24 from 1-3 p.m. at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home.

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

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02/17/2026

02/17/2026

Dean Oliver Staton

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dear husband and father, Dean Oliver Staton. Dean passed away at the Anaconda Community Hospital on Friday, February 13, 2026.

He was born in Missoula, Montana, March 26, 1941, to Herbert Olin and Mamie Margaret (Stumvoll) Staton. Dean attended local Anaconda schools and graduated from Anaconda High School in 1959. He attended University of Montana Western in Dillon Montana, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. He taught industrial arts, math and drivers’ education. He especially loved coaching football and track.

On July 15, 1967, Dean married the beautiful Mary Ann Kovacich. From this union, three daughters were born: Margaret Ann, Dianne Marie and Linda Sue. They were married for 59 years.

In 1971, Dean and family moved back to Anaconda from Eastern Montana to be closer to family and work at the smelter. In 1981, after the smelter closed Dean had various jobs around town. He was the proud owner of Anaconda Archery shop for many years.

Dean had almost too many hobbies to mention. Recently, he became a poet writing the “Epiphany of Three” of which he was very proud of and shared with many people. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, tinkerer, inventor, mechanic, and beekeeper. He loved fishing, reloading ammunition, making jams and jellies, smoking fish, machining parts, and gardening. He had a brilliant mind and his passion was reading, and more reading!

He also was a singer and talented musician mastering the banjo and guitar. He was a band member of the Ivy Leaguers and the Renegades, whom had a record recorded. He was a man of so many talents and brutally honest. His mind was sharp as a tack, and he was still cracking jokes till the end. Many neighbors, family and friends consulted him frequently on figuring out complex problems like math equations, inventions and projects. It’s hard to describe his life in a few simple paragraphs.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Mary Ann and daughters: Margaret (Steve Lott), Dianne (Nick Detmer), Linda (Ray Beck). He is also survived by two beautiful granddaughters, Anneliese and Katrina Detmer; brother and sister-in-laws: Andrew John and Carole, Joe, Mike and Willene Kovacich. Along with many adored nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Mamie Staton; his infant brother, Keith Leroy; in-laws Andy and Barbara Kovacich; and two sisters-in-laws, Betsy and Sharon Kovacich.

Thank you to the Anaconda Community Hospital for their loving care in helping our dear husband and father pass over. Special thanks to Dr. Como, Leann Smith and the entire medical staff.

Celebration of life will be on Saturday, February 28, 2026. His internment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery at 11:30 am. His funeral service will be at Longfellow Funeral Home at 1:00 pm with cake and coffee to follow.

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

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02/03/2026

Calvin Dean Stanley

On the morning of January 24th at 7:15 AM Dad peacefully entered eternal rest from natural causes. He was with Family and Friends until his passing.

Dad was born at home in Stevensville, MT on February 16th, 1935 to Jesse (Smith) and Luther Stanley. He grew up in the Bitterroot Valley; namely in the Corvallis and Stevensville areas with siblings Hope, Rod, Gary and Linda. 3-year-old sibling, Leroy passed in 1941. Dad graduated from Corvallis High in 1953 at which time he relocated to Anaconda and went to work for the Anaconda Company. Also, in 1953 he met our Mother Carolyn Ruth (Stavanja) Stanley at the El Rancho Drive Inn which resulted in them going “steady” until Mom’s passing in 2012. Mom and Dad married on October 20th, 1956. Of this union; 2 sons were born, Michael Lynn and Kevin Curtis.

Dad worked for the Anaconda Company at the Smelter and Opportunity ponds for 32 years; spending 6 years in the Phosphate Dept. then went to the “Coal Pile”. He became a heavy equipment operator, running cranes, bulldozers, graders and payloaders. A couple of the notable things he did amongst being a very hard worker were helping erect the Annual Christmas Tree at the Kennedy Commons for many years and setting large beams during construction of Georgetown Lake Lodge using his crane operating skills. One of the cranes he operated, “The #5” sits at the gate entering the Old Works Golf Course in Anaconda. After the Smelter closed in 1980, Dad was one of the 8 men remaining and they did endless cover / reclamation work in “The Ponds”. That work took over 5 years to complete. He then moved with his skills to the molybdenum and copper loadout at Montana Resources in Butte for another 12 years, retiring Jan 1, 1998.

Dad had many interests in his lifetime. He worked especially hard at keeping the family home in great repair and the yard was always immaculately kept. He enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, hunting and bowling over the years. He was also there to lend a helping hand, buck a bale or simply answer the call to contribute in helping our neighbors and friends in Opportunity.

Dad was fiercely protective of Mom and us Boys. Dad was a coach of the OVFD / Tuss Oil little league team for several years. He also spent many hours and countless trips to Stevensville helping our grandmother. In his retirement he rode “shotgun” and assisted Kevin with many of his duties at Granite Amusement. Dad truly loved our Cocker Spaniel, Muffin. Over the years he had many other animals with Shadow, Bozo, Chucky and Gus Gus. He also loved Mike and Gayle’s Boston Terriers Bella and Emee; Kevin’s multitude of critters including Jake, Rocky, Zeek, Zorro, Precious, Scout, Duke, Kimmbr, Bella, Fred, Figaro, Skye Blu and an orange tabby; Jesse (after our Grandmother Jesse). It was a nightly occurrence that he had to check sometimes seemingly half a dozen times to make sure our animals were inside and safe for the evening.

Dad and Mom thoroughly enjoyed their summer trips to Colorado to see Mike and Melissa and in 1977 we joined Mike in being Denver Broncos fans. Over the years Dad was a 30-year member of the Opportunity VFD, 50 plus year member of BPOE 239 and member of the Opportunity Community Club. He also served in the Army Reserves 796th Ordinance for 6 years with notables being a long-time friendship with Les Frank and they served with Robert “Evel” Knievel. Another of Dad’s favorite pastimes was walking to the “Store”; Solan’s Grocery in Oppor for the “Coffee Club”. Many stories, exaggerations, good company and treats were enjoyed.

Calvin is survived by his sons, Kevin and Mike (Gayle) of Anaconda and his “baby sister” Linda Reeder of Lolo, Grandchildren Melissa Stanley, Courtney Prosenick (DJ, Owen, Griffin and Liam), Trina Kent (Garrett and Ryker), Chris Forsman (Bobby and Blake), Sarah Grover (and sons, Timmothy, Jonas, Alex and Zak) Kori Robbins, Trevor Robbins, Cassandra Mann (daughter Amelia Crist) and many Nieces and Nephews. Surviving Cal as well, are dear friends Bill and Judy Fink, Stephanie Van Kirk, Kira Mott, Vicki and Leonard Ross and Donna Bahr.

Dad is preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Luther, Wife Carolyn, Sister Hope, Brothers Leroy, Rodney and Gary. Mother and Father-in-Law Anthony and Violette Stavanja, Sisters in Law Mary Ann and Nancy Stavanja, Brother-in-law Billy Stavanja and Nephew Rick Stavanja. Many happy Heavenly reunions took place on the morning of January 24 with Family and countless close friends that passed before him.

Celebration of life is 1 PM on Saturday February 7th at the Opportunity Community Club.

The family respectfully requests any memorials to Opportunity VFD, the Opportunity Community Club or an animal shelter of your choice. Thank You.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle is privileged to care for Calvin and his family.

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02/03/2026

Constance Mae Bucholz

Constance “Connie” Mae Bucholz, 85, passed away peacefully on the evening of Sunday, February 1st, 2026, in Anaconda, Montana.

Connie was born on September 22nd, 1940, in Anaconda, Montana to Alexander and Georgia Sbragia. She was raised in Anaconda with her brother and 3 sisters and was the oldest sibling. On May 25th, 1963, she married the love of her life, Benny “Ben” Frederick Bucholz. Connie and Ben were the devoted parents of 4 children.

Connie enjoyed working and serving others, helping the family run the White Spot restaurant as a youngster and later selling chocolates at the Woolworths candy counter. She would always say that the chocolate was in safe hands since she was allergic to eating chocolate. Connie’s first job out of High School was working in the Clerk and Recorders and Assessors offices at the Anaconda Court House, work that she especially enjoyed. She had numerous other jobs over the years, serving as secretary in the Anaconda School District and Aware, and later as a receptionist at Babcock Chiropractic. Connie was also a partner with Ben and family, taking care of the books for Bucholz Construction. Her family was her top priority, and she loved learning about, documenting, and helping others with Family History.

She is survived by: her sister, Sharon (Gery) Ricks; 4 children, Carolyn (Lloyd) Dunn, Ben (Melissa) Bucholz, Sandra (Ken) Walund, and Monty (Keri) Bucholz; 12 grandchildren, Steven, Chantel, Tanner, Aubree, Cydney, Kjersti, Hunter, Brett, Soraya, Brea, Gavin, and Jon; 15 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by: her parents, Alexander “Bill” and Georgia Sbragia; two sisters Georgia Leann “Leann” West and Annette “Jo” Dean; her brother Michael “Mike” Sbragia; and her husband, Ben Bucholz.

The funeral for Connie will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: 1300 W. Park Ave. Anaconda, MT 59711. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am with funeral services at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 7th, 2026. Graveside Service will follow at New Hill Cemetery.

The family expresses gratitude for all the love and support received and looks forward to reuniting with Connie again in a coming day.

Donations can be made to Eagle Mount, 6901 Goldenstein Ln., Bozeman, MT 59715, (eaglemount.org) for young people with disabilities and cancer.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle has been privileged to care for Constance and her family.

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01/28/2026

Gary Del Nelson

Gary D. Nelson, 82, passed away January 23, 2026 surrounded by family. He was born May 7, 1943 to Analee and Delmar Robert Nelson in Pekin, Illinois.

Gary is survived by his son, Mark and wife, Carol; grandchildren, Miles and Lauren Hilton; mom, Analee Nelson; sister, Kim Archuleta; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of friends and loved ones.

Gary was a resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico for 74 years and just recently moved to Montana to be closer to his mom and family.

Gary enlisted in the Marines in 1961 as well as the Air Force in 1965. Gary served in Vietnam from 1967-1968.

Gary worked at Barnhill & Bolt for nearly 50 years.

Gary was dedicated to his family, his son, Mark and his beloved best friend for 45 years, Diane Jones.

Gary was dearly loved by family and friends and will be greatly missed.

A Memorial Service for Gary will be held on February 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at Longfellow Funeral Home in Anaconda, MT

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

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01/26/2026

Madalen Marie Sugrue

Madalen M. Sugrue passed away on January 23, 2026. Madelan Marie was born to Bernard and Lena Sauber . She is pre-deceased by her two older and two younger brothers.

Raised in Gold Creek she attended elementary school there and graduated high school at Sacred Heart Academy in Missoula. She received her bachelor’s degree in education at the University of Providence (College of Great Falls at the time). Madalen then began her teaching career in Libby teaching second grade while continuing her own education, receiving her master’s degree from the University of Montana and her Doctorate in Education from Columbia University in New York City.

Her passion of 67 years was teaching special education and primary grades in Montana, California, and Washington, including 25 summers in Bellingham teaching teachers. Traveling to attend and teach at professional conferences made her life quite interesting. This included much of the United States, 18 countries, and a blessing by Pope Pius X in Vatican City. During these summer travels, she not only presented workshops in Special and Regular Education training programs, but she also always found time to extend her days to work with local students since they attended year-round schools. She kept in touch with many of these students and fellow teachers well after her retirement in 2017.

Madalen married Clayton Burt in 1964, who died in 1982. She married Jack Sugrue in 1984, partners in a happy life together until his death in 1995. Madalen enjoyed her home in Anaconda in which her extended family included her involvement as a member of Anaconda Catholic Community.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30am, Monday, February 2, 2026, at Holy Family Church, 217 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Anaconda. Committal Rite will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. A luncheon will be held back at the church in the Hunthausen Center.

Memorials in honor of Madalen are suggested to Discovery House, 65 Sheep Gulch Rd., Anaconda, MT 59711.

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

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01/26/2026

Leslie "Les" Robert Joronen

Leslie Robert Joronen, age 78, passed away on January 20, 2026, at St. James Hospital in Butte, Montana, following a sudden illness.

Les was born on October 16, 1947, in Anaconda, Montana, to Robert and Violet Joronen. He grew up in Anaconda and later attended Northwestern College in Havre, Montana. He proudly served in the United States Navy from August 1966 to 1972.

Les spent his career as an electrical engineer, working at the smelter, Pegasus Beal Mountain Mining, and later retiring from REC Silicon in 2013.

He was first married to Victoria Joronen of Butte, Montana, with whom he had three children. He later married Sandy Joronen on October 16, 1993, in Anaconda, Montana. Sandy preceded him in death on February 13, 2009.

Les enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, playing cribbage, solving puzzles, Bingo, Rummikub, and most recently collecting Elvis coins. He loved the outdoors and spent much of his time at the family cabin in Elk Park.

He is survived by his daughters, Roberta Cotton and Suzanne Joronen; his son, Christopher Joronen; his brother, Mike Joronen (Sheila); four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind cherished friendships that meant the world to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Violet Joronen; his sister, Nancy; and his wife, Sandy.

Condolences may be sent to Longfellow Funeral Home in Anaconda, Montana.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to a charity of your choice or by spending time in the outdoors he loved.

Les’s ashes will be distributed at a private family gathering at a later date.

The family extends a special thank you to The Springs Assisted Living Facility in Butte, Montana, for their care and compassion.

Memorial Services will be held Wednesday, 11:00 am, January 28, 2026 at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home in Anaconda, MT.

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

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