JANELLE BILILE

JANELLE BILILE Candace Janelle (McCann) Bilile, known lovingly to family and friends as Janelle, passed away peacefully at her home in Ronan, Montana on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. Janelle was born on September 16, 1958, and was raised on the beautiful Krone Ranch just outside of Augusta, MT, by her beloved parents Millie and Max McCann. Her childhood on the ranch shaped the strong, kind-hearted, and adventurous spirit she always had. One enduring bond of Janelle's life was with her older brother, Randy McCann. Exploring across Montana fields or getting into trouble with her pet antelope (which once famously caused Janelle's first bicycle crash), their connection was deep and lasting. When both returned to Montana, that sibling bond remained. Janelle grew up in the cowboy life alongside her adored father, while her mother nurtured her musical and domestic talents. Janelle was an incredible pianist,and an extraordinary cook.Janelle attended school at Mount Ellis Academy in Bozeman, MT then earned her business degree from Boise State. There she met Paul Rea, whom she married in 1984. Together they had three daughters Leah, Korine, and Kayla. In 1996, Janelle moved back to Montana with her daughters to be closer to her parents. She worked at the county hospital, then continued her career at 3 Rivers Telephone Company. Despite the challenges of living with Lupus, which led to her early retirement, Janelle never wavered. They moved to Choteau, MT she met Rodney Luinstra. They raised her three daughters for ten years. In 2004, Janelle moved to Ronan, where she married Gene Bilile in 2008 and lived on Bilile's ranch. Janelle welcomed three stepchildren Justin, Breanna, and Jordan into her heart. Janelle loved watching all of her children grow up and was proud of the people they became. She had a way of good advice, while always ready with a listening ear. Her bond with Gene was something truly special. Together, they shared a quiet, steady kind of love one rooted in sharing, respect, laughter, and learning. Their relationship was one of patience, growth, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Janelle's warmth, strength, and gentle spirit left an unforgettable mark on everyone she met. Along with her cherished parents, Janelle is preceded in death by many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins. She is survived by her devoted husband, Gene; brother Randy McCann; sister Carla Quam; her daughters, Leah, Korine, and Kayla Rea; and her stepchildren, Justin, Breanna, and Jordan Bilile. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren. A private graveside service will be held for the family. Janelle wouldn't want a fuss she would want to be remembered for her warm smile, advice, and love she had for the people she cared about.