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.