Joseph "Joe" Rainville

Joseph Paul Rainville first met mom and life on April 17, 1947. He met his Savior March 7, 2023, in the wee hours of morning. He was born to Paul and Virginia (Todd) Rainville in Missoula, MT. At a young age they moved to Deer Lodge where he remained until his death of natural causes. Upon graduation from high school in 1966, he joined the Navy. After his first tour of Vietnam, he met and married Carol Steber on October 20, 1969. This marriage lasted 53 years, producing two children. Second tour of Vietnam happened in October of 1969 to February of 1971. The next 20 years Joe spent in the Navy Reserve, so proud of his time and accomplishments. The (Boss) retired after 31 years of being a Maintenance welder at MSP and took up Harley life. He was a member of Vietnam Vets MC Club during the 90's. After quitting the club his main riding partner was his daughter. They called it Road Therapy. He also enjoyed camping with his kids and grandchildren. Best time ever for us.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; son, Daniel, of Mason City IL; Dan's wife, Penny; grandchildren Nicholas and Taylor Rainville; daughter, Michele Rainville, of Butte; grandchildren, Dallas, Dylan, and Devon Cook; son, Tony Pearson, and family of Washington; brothers, Dick Rainville, of Colorado Springs, CO, Todd Rainville, of Deer Lodge; stepbrother, Teddy Rainville, of Idaho; and stepsister, Sharon Stevens of Arlee, MT. 

Preceding him in death were his grandparents; parents; sister, Mary Lou Miller; half-brother, Boyd Kessler; and daughter in law, Julia Rainville. 

Our family will be forever grateful to the friends and family who stood by us for the last 7 years of Joe’s illness.

Funeral services will be held in Deer Lodge in June of 2023 with reception to follow at his home. Services will be announced when arrangements are finalized.

Memorials in honor of Joe are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project (4899 Belfort Road Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256) or the Deer Lodge Food Pantry (101 Milwaukee Ave, Deer Lodge, MT 59722).

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

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