Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Funeral service & cemetery, 107 Oak Street, Anaconda, MT.

Nickie Neil Cayko“A cheerful heart is good medicine.” — Proverbs 17:22Nickie Neil Cayko, 73, passed away peacefully on A...
04/24/2026

Nickie Neil Cayko

“A cheerful heart is good medicine.” — Proverbs 17:22

Nickie Neil Cayko, 73, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. If you ever had the joy of being near Nickie, you likely heard him before you saw him — his infectious laugh had a way of filling every room, every building, and every heart it touched.

Nickie was born on July 1, 1952, and was raised on a farmstead in the Nohly Township, north of Fairview, Montana, where he attended a one-room schoolhouse and developed the hardworking, resourceful spirit that defined him all his life. He followed in his father’s footsteps in more ways than one — not only farming the land beside him, but also donning the red suit each Christmas to play Santa Claus for the community, a role that seemed almost written for a man of such warmth and jovial spirit.

In 1973, Nickie married Shirley Johnson, and their union brought two sons into the world — Doug and Brian — who became among his greatest sources of pride. He raised his family on the farmstead beside his parents, Nick and Frances (Herdt) Cayko, cultivating sugar beets and various crops over the years. He was a devoted member of the Fairview community and served with pride on the Fairview School Board for several years. In 1997, Nickie retired from farming and traded the wide-open fields of eastern Montana for the beauty of Georgetown Lake, Montana.

Few things brought Nickie more joy than his grandchildren. He was their biggest fan in the bleachers and the first to arrive at a school play, a ball game, or any event where one of them was taking the field or the stage. He beamed with pride watching them grow and never missed an opportunity to let them know it. Not a birthday passed without a card in the mail, and the holidays were no different — each grandchild could count on hearing from Grandpa Nickie without fail. Spending time with all of them was simply one of his favorite things in the world.

A self-described “old farmer,” Nickie had an extraordinary gift for solving problems. There wasn’t a mechanical mystery he couldn’t puzzle through, and neighbors and friends regularly sought him out when something needed fixing. One of his favorite pastimes was what he lovingly called “piddling in the shop” — losing himself for hours among tools, projects, and the quiet satisfaction of working with his hands. That same generous spirit extended out into the neighborhood each winter, when Nickie spent years snow blowing for residents around Georgetown Lake, meeting hundreds of neighbors along the way and making friends everywhere he pointed that machine.

In 2014, Nickie married Sherry Cayko, and the two embarked on a chapter that friends and family described as pure joy to witness. They were a couple who laughed — often, loudly, and together — and that laughter became the soundtrack of their life as a pair. Sherry was his partner in every adventure: long side-by-side rides with the Maxville Community, days out on the water, and travels that took them far from home but always brought them back to their beloved Maxville Community. She brought out the best of who he already was, and he loved her completely for it. Their relationship was a reminder that love has no expiration date and that the right person can make every season of life feel like a gift.

Nickie had a rare and beautiful quality: he became family to nearly everyone he met. His laugh, his generosity, his willingness to show up — these were gifts he gave freely and often. He leaves behind a community fuller for having known him.

Nickie is survived by his beloved wife and adventure partner, Sherry Cayko; his sons Doug (Kirstin) Cayko and their children Blythe, Nohl, and Margaux, and Brian Cayko and his children Quinton and Zaythan; Sherry’s children: Shannon Delude and her children Crystal, Aidan, Jayka and Brityn, Chase Reynolds (Kila) and their children Talen, Peyton, and Tenley, and Tel Reynolds (Jaclyn) and their children Cadence, Averie, and Palmer; and Nickie’s siblings E’dee and Ken Cayko.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick and Frances Cayko, and his brother Gary.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer. Details will be shared with family and friends as they become available. In keeping with his wishes, Nickie’s ashes will be spread near the creek at his beloved home in Maxville, Montana — a place that captured his heart and reflected everything he loved about life in Montana.

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

The laugh that lit up every room will echo on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

View Nickie Neil Cayko's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/16/2026
Brian Leonard BenjaminBrian Leonard Benjamin, affectionately known as “Benji” to his friends, was born on March 27, 1965...
04/15/2026

Brian Leonard Benjamin

Brian Leonard Benjamin, affectionately known as “Benji” to his friends, was born on March 27, 1965, in Deer Lodge, Montana, to Harry and Karen Benjamin. From the very beginning, Brian lived life with energy and fearlessness—keeping those around him on their toes, whether it was climbing a railing overlooking a 100-foot drop at Hungry Horse Dam as a toddler or embracing adventure throughout his life.

Brian grew up enjoying the outdoors, spending countless hours hunting, fishing, and riding on the Wagon Train with his best friend, Willie Pearson. He worked weekends and summers at the Vanisko Ranch, where he was both well-loved and good-naturedly teased. A strong and determined individual, Brian excelled in wrestling, approaching the sport with a seriousness and intensity that rivaled professionals.

Following high school, Brian began logging for Bill Free Logging, a career he deeply loved. Over more than 20 years, he became a highly skilled loader operator with Sherman Anderson Logging. After sustaining numerous injuries, he was forced to step away from logging. He briefly worked driving a mixing truck for Heli-Works before beginning a second career at the prison. Though the transition from the woods to indoor work was challenging, Brian grew to appreciate his new role and especially valued the friendships he built with his coworkers. He medically retired after more than 12 years of service.

Brian found great joy and pride in his family. He shared a life with Jodi Hubbard, and together they raised their four athletic and busy sons: Will (Sarah), Cody (Hailey), Hayden, and Cade (Autumn). He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and cherished his role within his large extended family.

Known for his unique way of giving, Brian never purchased traditional birthday or Christmas gifts. Instead, he gifted unforgettable Fourth of July fireworks displays that rivaled those of any big city—his way of bringing joy to everyone around him.

Brian was preceded in death by his father, Harry Benjamin; his best friend, Willie Pearson; his grandparents, including Dr. Leonard Benjamin, who delivered him at birth; and his parents-in-law, Duane (“Hub”) and Gail Hubbard.

He is survived by his mother, Karen, and stepfather, Dennis; his sister, Kari; his nephew, Deker; Jodi Hubbard; his sons and grandchildren; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins from the Benjamin, Bacon, Witt, and Hubbard families.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 25 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Harry’s home, 7950 East Side Road, Deer Lodge, Montana, with a BBQ in Brian’s honor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Elmer’s (of Racetrack) Fourth of July fireworks display in honor of Brian, or to a charity of your choice.

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

View Brian Leonard Benjamin's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Mary Ann OlsenMary Ann Olsen passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026 at the Ivy Nursing Home in Deer Lodge, MT.She was ...
04/14/2026

Mary Ann Olsen

Mary Ann Olsen passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026 at the Ivy Nursing Home in Deer Lodge, MT.

She was born in Missoula, MT on September 26, 1945 to L.J. and Jane (Kelley) Hammond and was baptized in the St. Francis Xavier Church Her family lived at Grandma Hammond’s house on South 6th Street East. As a little girl she walked to St. Anthony’s School carrying her blue lunch box and crossing Higgins Street.

The Hammond Family moved to Deer Lodge when Mary Ann was in first grade. They lived at 309 Clark Street- right next to the funeral home. She said they could find the best night crawlers and even peeked in the basement windows of the funeral home to see if they could see anything. She attended St. Mary’s Academy until 8th grade. She graduated from Powell County High School in 1963. While in high school, she worked at the family business: The Wardrobe Dry Cleaners. Her job was delivering the dry cleaning to the surrounding areas. Mary Ann and her friend Patsy had several fun trips while delivering the dry cleaning.

After graduating from high school, Mary Ann moved to Spokane and attended the Kinman Busincss University for one year. She then moved to Helena and worked at the telephone company for one year. She worked a short time for Kermit Daniels, and at the Registrar’s Office for 2 years. She was the Study Hall Supervisor at Powell County High School for 2 years. She had several funny stories about the days as the study hall supervisor. She then worked at the Deer Lodge Elementary School District as a Special Education Aide until retirement.

Mary Ann married Lars Olsen on July 30, 1966. Together they ran the family ranch. Since Mary Ann grew up as a “city” girl, she quickly learned the ranching lifestyle. Mary Ann drove the truck while Lars threw the hay off for the cows, she helped with tagging calves, and other numerous ranching things. Anytime we branded the calves or took the cows to the hills, Mary Ann always made sure there was plenty of food and beer. She wanted to make sure that no one went away from the kitchen table hungry.

Mary Ann enjoyed bowling, quilting and especially taking care of her granddaughter Annalee when she was little. As Annalee grew older, Mary Ann enjoyed going to all the volleyball games and several track meets. Annalee was definitely the sparkle in Mary Ann’s eyes.

MaryAnn is preceded in death by her husband Lars, parents L.J. and Jane Hammond, brother Andy Hammond, in-laws, Lee Olsen, Hermie Olsen, Lee Eliason, Jean Sager, and Olivia Olin. She is survived by her daughter Tammy (Mark), and granddaughter Annalee. She is also survived by her brother Dave (Rose) Hammond of Missoula, many cousins, and numerous nieces and nephews. I would also like to acknowledge The Ladies Coffee Group: Judy, Donna, and Rose Marie and thank you for your continued friendship to Mary Ann. And a special thank you to Sharon for being there for my mom every step of the way!

In memory of Mary Ann, you may send donations to: Powell County Booster Club, PO Box 845, Deer Lodge MT 59722.

Funeral Mass will start at 11 am, Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Immaculate Conception Church, 601 Clark Street, Deer Lodge. Interment will take place immediately following Mass at Hillcrest Cemetery, 343 Conley Lake Road, Deer Lodge. A reception will follow interment at St. Mary's Center, Deer Lodge.

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

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

James Joseph Bubash, Sr.James Joseph Bubash Sr. was born on January 23, 1938, to George “Teddy” and Helen (Keefe) Bubash...
04/13/2026

James Joseph Bubash, Sr.

James Joseph Bubash Sr. was born on January 23, 1938, to George “Teddy” and Helen (Keefe) Bubash in Anaconda, MT.

He attended local schools and graduated from Anaconda High School in 1956.

His high school years were filled with sports, especially football and baseball. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the Air Force, and was a volunteer for the 1960 Winter Olympics in Reno, Nevada.

Jim worked for the Anaconda Company for 40+ @ #$ damn years, driving back and forth between Anaconda and Butte, where he was an underground miner and machinist for The Anaconda Company. Jim retired in 2001. He often said how he missed his co-workers after his retirement.

Jim enjoyed snowmobiling, long rides in the mountains, fishing, hunting, and reading about WWII, along with books on the history of Anaconda and Montana. One of his favorite memories was his fishing trip to Alaska. The annual Christmas Eve parties with family and friends were one of his favorite times.

Always willing to help others on projects and share his knowledge, Jim also enjoyed working on cars, doing home repairs, and whatever chore was needed.

Jim was famous for his numerous stories that he shared with everyone throughout his travels around town.

On February 11, 1974, Jim and Florence Monaco were married and blended 2 families into one.

Jim is survived by his children Gayle Stanley, Kim Dawson (Tracey), Lee (Patty) Howe, Lisa Huber, Mark (Karen) Howe, and Mike (Polly) Pickett; sisters Jean Lee, brother Bob (Linda) Bubash, and Marian Thornton; grandchildren Quinn, Cara, Madison, Jackie, Leslie, Henry, Molly, Thomas, Julianna, Nathan, Lucy, John, Paul, Christopher, Jacob, and Aly; great-grandchildren Adelaide, Beatrice, Jett, Mack, Reese, Saoirse, and Olivia.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Flo, son Jim “Boo” Bubash, Jr, parents Teddy Bubash, Helen and Bob Birmingham, infant brother Gary, brothers-in-law Al Lee and Jim Thornton.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to the care provided to Jim by Dr. Cook and the staff of Community Hospital of Anaconda.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Jim’s name.

Memorial services will be held at 1p.m., Friday, April 17, 2026 at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home in Anaconda.

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

View James Joseph Bubash, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Frances "Fran" EvansFrances Della “Fran” Evans, 89, passed away on April 3, 2026, and was reunited in Heaven with her be...
04/07/2026

Frances "Fran" Evans

Frances Della “Fran” Evans, 89, passed away on April 3, 2026, and was reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Merritt.

Fran was born on May 22, 1936. After marrying Merritt in Colorado, the couple traveled as he worked in highway construction before settling in Opportunity, Montana, where they raised their family. Fran was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who found her greatest joy in caring for her loved ones.

She is survived by her children: Skip Evans, Gene Evans, and Sandra Evans; grandchildren: Brandy Jo, Savannah Evans, Jake Evans, and Derek Evans; and great-grandchildren: Mariah Becker, Jesse Becker, Austin Evans, Alyssa Bell (Evans), Heaven Evans, Taylor Evans, and Merritt Evans. She was also blessed to witness five generations of her family, including her great-great-grandchildren, Kinsley Seitzinger and Della Bell.

Fran worked for many years as a waitress and cherished the friendships she made along the way. She especially treasured her lifelong friendship with Connie Meyers, with whom she shared many meaningful memories.

Fran will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her presence touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

There will be a private graveside service for the family and loved ones of Frances.

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

View Frances "Fran" Evans's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Albert John Clark, Jr.Albert “Al” Clark was born and raised in Anaconda, Montana. He was the first of fourteen children ...
04/07/2026

Albert John Clark, Jr.

Albert “Al” Clark was born and raised in Anaconda, Montana. He was the first of fourteen children born to Albert & Alice (Kelly) Clark. Al was also known affectionately as “Crabby Abby”. This nickname was given to him by his sister-in-law, Nancy, and he was very proud of that.

Al always kept very busy in life. At the age of 12 he and an uncle wanted to earn some spending money so they started the “Clark’s Christmas Tree” business, which is still in operation on West Third Street. He attended school in Anaconda and was set to graduate from Anaconda Central High School in 1957. A hunting accident at the age of 16 delayed his graduation by a year. He was shot in the neck which left him partially paralyzed on his right side. This put an end to his dream of playing professional baseball.

He loved to watch his grandchildren at any sporting event or activity in which they were involved. Al also enjoyed watching rodeos and traveled every year to Las Vegas to see the National Finals Rodeo.

After high school he worked as a ranch hand at several ranches around Montana, including Helmville, Winston & Philipsburg. While working in Philipsburg in 1963 he met Terry Slovacek and they married in December 1964. The marriage lasted for over 30 years and ended in divorce, but they remained good friends.

In 1966, he went to work for the smelter. He held several positions ranging from Janitor to Lime Kiln Foreman, to Electric Furnace Supervisor. He said his crew cut the power to the electric furnace and the smelter was forever closed.

After the smelter closed, his desire to keep busy led him into the business of raising pigs with his friend, Duane Logan. They were in the pig business together from 1982 to 1984 near Warm Springs, Montana. In 1984 he started working at the Housing Authority of Anaconda where he was the maintenance supervisor until his retirement in 1999. After retirement he grew hay and raised some cattle. Some of his happiest days were spent in the swather cutting hay. Although there was one day that was not so happy. He was cutting hay near Philipsburg and his ride to lunch was late. After waiting way too long for the ride to show up, Al improvised and drove the swather right down the highway to the Sunshine Station and ate lunch. When his ride finally arrived, they witnessed firsthand how fitting his nickname could be.

Al also had a very generous side. He would discreetly mail money to people he thought were in need. He would also loan out his equipment and tools to anybody who asked. He would happily volunteer family members to assist with whatever needed to be done. Even in his personal life, he liked to supervise.

Al is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Gene, James Joseph & Billy Clark; sisters Alice Joan Finnegan & Ruth Ann Puccinelli; brother-in-law, Joe Slovacek, nephews Craig Finnegan & Joey Slovacek and niece Sarah Sweeney.

He is survived by his ex-wife, Terry Clark and their three children, John Clark (Tabitha Utz), Valerie Kober (Tim) and Debbie Wixsten (Randy). Albert has nine grandchildren, Jared & Josh Clark; Michael (Mary Wang), Alex (Jasmine Busche) & Andrew (Emma Funk) Kober; and Eric (Whitney), Sean, Travis & Amanda Wixsten. He also has five great grandchildren, Ella & Wyatt Wixsten and Conley, Vincent & Bennett Kober.

He is survived by brother-in-law, Larry Finnegan; siblings, Robert (Nancy) Clark, Mary Lou (Jim) Furaus, Larry (Barbara) Clark, Barbara (Dan) Whittaker, Janice (Tom) Sweeney, Jerry Clark, Susan Clark, Laureen (Rob) Hensley, Pat (Sandy) Domitrovich; sisters-in-law Fran Galvin, Julie Slovacek & Sonja Clark and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12 pm, Saturday, Aprill 11, 2026 at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home followed by interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Anaconda. A reception will follow interment back at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Camp Mak-A Dream, the Anaconda Food Bank or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

View Albert John Clark, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Albert John Clark, Jr.Albert John Clark, Jr., of Butte, passed on April 2, 2026. Funeral Services will be held at 12 p.m...
04/03/2026

Albert John Clark, Jr.

Albert John Clark, Jr., of Butte, passed on April 2, 2026.

Funeral Services will be held at 12 p.m., Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home, Anaconda. Interment will be at 1 pm at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Anaconda followed by a reception back at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home.

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

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

View Albert John Clark, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Charles Larry ThorpeIn the early hours of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Charles “Chuck” Thorpe went with the angels. He was 8...
04/02/2026

Charles Larry Thorpe

In the early hours of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Charles “Chuck” Thorpe went with the angels. He was 88 years old and at home comforted by his wife and a friend.

Chuck was born in Lansing, Iowa on March 13, 1938, to Lawrence Thorpe and Beatrice Race at the Thorpe family farm. He was a farm/ranch kid raised by his maternal grandparents, Charlie and Emma Race, in Burley, Idaho. They worked their farm, and during summers, Chuck went where his step-dad and mother were working at the time including a ranch in Dillon, Montana.

Check entered the Navy at the age of 17 aboard the “Kiddy Cruise” as it was called. He served as a shipboard electrician during his enlistment of four years active duty and two on reserve. He also had the fortunate experience of living in Japan for a year and a half.

After being discharged in California, Chuck worked a few odd jobs before joining the Westminster Police Department in Orange County where he served for nearly 10 years. In 1969, he was honored for “Bravery Above and Beyond.” Chuck then took a break from police work and went into private security.

On December 31, 1971, while working security at a large New Year’s Eve party, Chuck met the love of his life. Pam’s aunt was the hostess of the party and nagged Pam into coming. Chuck and Pam met at a party that neither wanted to be at and were together for 54 years, married 51 years. In 1974, they were married in Las Vegas.

During their lifetime together, they had many adventures and lots of fun.

They started their own security company not too long after the party, and sold it in 1974 to move to Lancaster, California. It was there that Chuck became chief of security at Air Force Plant 42 by Edwards Air Force Base. He was there when the first space shuttle rolled out onto the tarmac. Chuck and Pam were honored and privileged to meet many interesting people including NASA astronauts and many of the scientists and engineers that worked at the jet propulsion lab in Pasadena.

When the contract ended at Plant 42, he moved Pam to Idaho where he joined the Wendall Police Department. Since Wendall was just ‘a wide spot in the road’ at the time, it was a real “Mayberry” situation with a department consisting of the chief and Chuck. It was a little too small for him so they moved to Twin Falls where they both took jobs at the potato factory. It was the first ’no stress’ job that either of them had, and they had lots of fun there.

Chuck eventually went to work for the local police department, but it wasn’t long before he realized he was burned out. They packed up and moved to Omak, Washington where his father lived. There he worked for the county maintenance and emergency services departments.

It was in Omak where Chuck returned to the military. He joined the Washington National Guard AGR and served another 16 years of active duty. He was the SFC/NCOIC for several companies all over Washington, from ground pounder, transportation, armored to attack helicopters.

His last duty station was Yakima, and in 1995, he retired from the military. Pam said no more deserts and their retirement home needed trees and water. That’s when they moved to Libby, Montana. After 12 years, they knew they wanted to stay in Montana, just not in Libby. They found Anaconda in 2007 and said, “home at last!”

After moving, Chuck became a life member of the local DAV where he obtained the necessary grants to pay for the veterans’ van. He also helped as a driver and introduced the veterans here to a ‘stand down,’ providing lots of clothing and gear for them. Additionally, he organized a computer program for veterans where he took donated computers, cleaned them up, and gave them to any veteran in need. For this, he was honored as “Veteran of the Year” in 2011.

Chuck also volunteered with the Anaconda police commission, department of emergency services, and the coroner’s office.

Some of Chuck’s friends started him riding quads, but after his third trip to the ER on one of his play dates, Pam said “enough” and sold his quad. Chuck was also an avid reader and was well known at the library. Sam and everyone there were close to his heart. Chuck loved fishing, something his dad taught him. He also stayed busy with Pam who always found projects in the yard for him.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Thorpe and Beatrice Race, and an infant daughter.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela; the other love of his life, daughter, Windi Thorpe (partner Carl Eck); nephew Chris Tilley and family; Ryan Collins and family; sisters – Shari Barstow, Margi McClellen; numerous other nieces and nephews as well as many special friends. He considered you all family and he loved you so much.

Chuck was a humble man and grateful for his life and all of those around him. He asked that anyone wishing to make donations consider Wounded Warriors, the DAV, or a charity of their choice.

A celebration of life will follow with information provided later.

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

View Charles Larry Thorpe's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Keith Robert MarthallerKeith Robert Marthaller was born April 6, 1979. He was the last of Marthallers. Keith grew up in ...
04/01/2026

Keith Robert Marthaller

Keith Robert Marthaller was born April 6, 1979. He was the last of Marthallers. Keith grew up in Anaconda with friends who became family. His mother, Silvia Peterson, passed when he was young and his dad, Ken Marthaller, remarried prior to his passing. This left Keith with the most wonderful mom, Sally (Bleile) Marthaller. Sally treated this young man as her own. She raised him, taught him, and loved him. Sally also brought Keith a sister in Julie.

Keith graduated from Anaconda High School in 1997. He was so kind and fun loving. He always tried to bring a smile to those around him. He was incredibly animated and always shared his love of the game cartwheels.

Even though both of Keith’s parents passed when he was young, he was never without family. He kept collecting family throughout his life because he was so kind and lovable. This started with the Bleiles, then moved on to the Heaneys, the Smiths, the Monacos, Josh Follman, and John Durkin. After high school Keith attended the University of Montana. Prior to realizing college was not for him, he left his mark, especially at Pantzer Hall. There are many great stories about Keith, and he loved hearing and reliving all of them.

In April of 2005, Keith finally made a move on Alexis Monaco. It took him quite a while to realize she was available and interested. He asked her to accompany him to a house party in Lost Creek. They went to the party with a few other friends. Alexis left her cell phone and car keys in the car while they socialized at the party. When Keith was ready to leave he did not want to bother Alexis, as he thought she was having a good time. He quietly left with his friends. Alexis realized this and after a few phone calls she found Keith at the Harp, sitting at the bar with her cell phone and car keys. He said he knew she would find him because he had her stuff. She never left him again.

Their time together was magic. Her family became his family, and his chosen family became her family. They eloped in Las Vegas in 2008, and welcomed Link in 2014. This added to Keith’s family. He loved pop culture, golf, baseball, video games, and newly discovered the greatness of hockey. He was a Braves fan, an unfortunate Cowboys fan, a Griz fan, and a newly minted Canucks fan. He loved watching and playing golf. He taught Alexis to golf, and she only hit him with a ball once. Some of the best times of his life were on a golf course. He felt at home there.

Keith was a helper. He had a way of making others feel comfortable and at ease. He was a natural at helping people find calm. This was a bit ironic, considering he was always worried and anxious. When Alexis was pregnant, he would often make himself sick with worry. She was his calming presence and could help him find his zen. Many days started with reminders of blessings and the good in life. The main one was Link. He was incredibly proud of his child’s intelligence, strength, creativity, and wit. They shared a stubborn streak, and Alexis would often remind him of their similarities. He was so worried about being a good dad, but the worry never showed because his love was all that was needed to create a strong, confident, amazing child.

While Keith left us early, he made his mark. He saw, again, that Alexis was having fun, but he was ready to go. He quietly slipped away but kept her stuff with him. It’s not her car keys and cell phone, but something much more sacred. She knows when she is ready, he will be there waiting to give her back her heart.

Please join us for a celebration of life on Thursday April 9, 2026, at 1pm at Longfellow Finnegan Funeral Home. A luncheon at the Club Moderne will follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a cancer charity of your choice, or to Link’s college fund at Southwest Montana Credit Union.

We would like to thank the wonderful people at the Oncology and Infusion Center in Anaconda and the amazing people at Providence in Missoula. You were all so kind and caring. We would also like to thank our community. You all have shown us there is so much good in this world!

Keith enjoyed comfort, golf, and pop culture. Please wear your most “Keith appropriate” clothing. Choose a golf shirt, a nerdy shirt, your good sweats, whatever makes you comfortable and happy!

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

View Keith Robert Marthaller's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Address

107 Oak Street
Anaconda, MT
59711

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

+14065633371

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