Michael Lynn Stanley

Michael “Mike” Stanley, 68, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, with his loving wife by his side.

Mike was born on March 31, 1957, in Anaconda, Montana, to Cal and Carolyn (Stavanja) Stanley. He was raised in Opportunity and attended Beaver Dam School, where he formed a close-knit group of lifelong friends who remained dear to him throughout his life. Mike graduated from Anaconda Senior High School in 1975. During his school years, he participated in various sports, with football being his favorite. Whether in school or beyond, Mike had a gift for making friends wherever he went.

In 1969, Mike proudly became a big brother to Kevin, a role he cherished deeply. After high school, Mike moved to Colorado, where his daughter, Melissa, was born in 1976. Mike loved Melissa beyond measure and took immense pride in his beautiful daughter. He faithfully attended her activities and treasured every moment they spent together.

Mike later returned to Montana, working various jobs in the Livingston and Bozeman areas before eventually settling back in Anaconda to help care for his father and support his mother. This time together strengthened the bond between Cal and Carolyn and brought comfort to the family. Mike also spent many days with his aunts, Maryanne and Nancy Stavanja, learning valuable skills—especially baking, at which he became quite talented.

Throughout his life, Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing horseshoes, and bowling. He found his true calling when he began working for A.W.A.R.E., Inc., where he dedicated 13 years of service until his retirement. Mike was an incredible asset to A.W.A.R.E., treating the consumers with respect and always remaining calm and even-tempered in any situation. He was loved by all and will be remembered for his perfect “billion-dollar” smile.

In 2010, Mike met the love of his life, Gayle. They were married in 2012 and began a beautiful life together filled with love, laughter, fun, and adventure. He lovingly called her his “Sug.”

Mike is survived by his wife, Gayle; his daughter, Melissa Stanley; his brother, Kevin Stanley; his aunt, Linda Reeder; sisters-in-law Kim Dawson (Tracey) and Linda Charanza; brother- and sister-in-law Pat (Carolyn) Brebrick; nephews Quinn and Jared; nieces Dana, Erin, Nicole, Cara, and Maddie; Aunt Jean Stanley; his special puppy, Emee; and many other beloved family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cal and Carolyn Stanley; his mother- and father-in-law, Carole and Thomas Brebrick; brothers-in-law Jim Bubash, Tommy Brebrick, and Slick Charanza; uncles Bill Stavanja and Norm Reeder; aunts Maryanne and Nancy Stavanja; and many other family members and friends.

Visitation will take place at 12:00 p.m. and a Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home, 107 Oak Street in Anaconda.

Memorial donations in Mike’s name may be made to the Mary Beth Hess Memorial Scholarship, the American Cancer Society, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

“I love you forever.”

— Your Sug

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