Russell Louis Bilodeau

Russell “Russ” Louis Bilodeau, 68, passed away on March 20, 2025, at his home in the loving arms of his partner and soulmate, Kelly.

Born June 20, 1956, in Anaconda, MT, to Robert and Marcellena (Richter) Bilodeau, Russ moved with his family to Washington at age six and graduated from Issaquah High School in 1975. He eventually returned to the state he loved—Montana—living in various areas before settling back in Anaconda.

A skilled carpenter, Russ worked various jobs before beginning a 30-year career at Montana State Hospital, where he was known for treating patients with kindness and respect.

Russ was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. One of his proudest moments was harvesting a big cow elk, a story he told for months. A skilled craftsman, he enjoyed building and repairing things, often helping friends and family with projects. Russ also loved planting a garden every spring, ensuring that he would have fresh vegetables to eat all summer long.

One of Russ’s greatest joys was becoming a Papa to his grandson, Bryson. He cherished teaching him to fish, camping at Racetrack, taking side-by-side rides, using tools, and doing “guy stuff.”

Russ was kind and generous, always willing to help others without expecting anything in return. His love with Kelly endured through the hardship of a cardiac arrest in 2022, which left him unable to care for himself. For three years, Kelly served as his full-time caregiver. Despite the challenges, Russ remained strong-willed and continued to fight for his health, giving his loved ones three more cherished years.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his loving partner Kelly; sons Robert, Jeremiah, and Russell Bilodeau; bonus children Chris LaTray and Katie LaTray; grandchildren Bryson LaTray and Hadley Bilodeau; brothers Richard (Deb), Ron (Fanny), and Randy (Tracy); and his beloved fur-baby, Sherman.

Special thanks to the staff at Anaconda Internal Medicine for their excellent care and to Pintler Home Options—especially nurse Harold—for their support.

Russ was deeply loved and will be sorely missed by many.

“I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with you, then I realized you spent the rest of your life with me.”

Visit the sidebar to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Russ.

Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home and Crematory has been privileged toc are for Russ and his family.