Carl Stephen Jess

Carl S. Jess passed away peacefully on December 20th, 2024, at the age of 89, in Anaconda, Montana, at his family home, "the Big House" with his daughter by his side, and his sons, grandchildren, great grandchildren and many family members in attendance. Born on January 27, 1935, Carl led a life marked by kindness, humor, and steadfastness. He was deeply committed to his family and loved the outdoors.

Carl attended Anaconda High School until he joined the Army and was stationed in Alaska. He became a boilermaker working at the Smelter and later went on to barber school in Great Falls. Carl returned to Anaconda, opening his own barbershop on Main Street. He then worked as a Barber for the state of Montana and retired after 20 years. Not yet ready to put down his clippers, he worked at a barbershop on Park Street until his final retirement in 1998.

Carl married his high school sweetheart Mary Kay "Cute" McDonald on December 29th, 1956, in Anaconda, Montana where the couple lived and raised their family and were an integral part of the local community hosting an epic Christmas Eve party every year with all welcome.

Carl was an avid outdoorsman relishing in camping, hunting, fishing and spending time in the mountains of Montana. He was a devoted friend and family member and the first person many called on to fix or build anything. Woodworking, mechanics, and tinkering were passions throughout his life. He often would find an ancient cedar fencepost in the back country and carry it home, where he would turn it on the lathe and make something beautiful.

Carl found great joy in being a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He and Cute enjoyed being with friends and family exploring Montana and elsewhere on many trips, picnics and adventures. He was also the giver of countless first haircuts, and was elected Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus.

Carl was a long-time member of the Holy Family Catholic Church. His faith was personal and sincere.

Carl is survived by his brother Pete McBride, his sons Carl (Blaise) Jess, Anthony (Marie) Jess, Andrew (Kathy) Jess, his daughter Catherine Wickham who cared for him for many years of his life, and his sons John (Heather) Jess, James (Linda) Jess, and Brian (Laurel) Jess, numerous brother's in law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

Carl was preceded in death by his wife Mary Kay "Cute" Jess, his sister-in-law Mary "Sue" Ehman, his parents Jerry Jess and Flossie Stigall, as well as numerous brothers, sisters, relatives and friends.

Visitation with viewing will be held from 5:00p.m.-7:00pm on Sunday, December 29th, 2024, at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home. Funeral Mass will be held Monday, December 30th, 2024, at Holy Family Catholic Church at 10:30 am. Visitation will begin one hour prior at 9:30 am at the church. Rite of Committal with Military Honors will be held at 10:00a.m, Tuesday, December 31st, 2024 at Mount Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Carl are suggested to Pintler Hospice, 118 E 7th St, Anaconda, MT 59711

Carl's legacy of loyalty, kindness, unwavering love, and resolute commitment to family will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Isaiah 41:10

"Do not fear for I am always with you. I will never leave you. Remember that I am your God.

Please visit the sidebar to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Carl.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Carl and his family.