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BORN
1948
DIED
2026
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Lance Lahti Obituary
July 3, 1948 - January 7, 2026
Lance Michael Lahti was born on July 3, 1948 in Butte America. He was the son of the late Larry and Phyllis Reynolds Lahti. Over the last few years his health had been declining. Despite this, he met every health problem head on with that fighter's spirit and valiantly overcame many. However, on January 7th, he passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.
Lance attended Butte High School, lettering in football and graduating in 1966. After high school, he attended college but ultimately left because (to quote Lance), "they didn't like my management style." In 1968, Lance joined the Army National Guard. He served his country Honorably for the next 32 years, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He retired in 2002 as Director of Maintenance for the Montana Army National Guard.
Those who knew him will remember Lance for his great sense of humor and such a great distinct laugh.
Lance dearly loved the annual family camping/glamping trip to Seeley Lake each summer. Beyond the float trips and cooking, he especially cherished the camaraderie and conversations shared around the campfire.
Lance's other hobbies included waxing and detailing vehicles - his own as well as those of friends/family - trying his luck on the machines, and cooking and baking, where he was especially known for creating extraordinary cheesecakes for his favorite people.
His memory lives on with his wife, Dana (Okerlund); his daughters, Jody (Jim), Heidi (Dawson); grandchildren, Kadin, Charlie, Kage; his sister, Michone (Rich) and many more family members, friends, in-laws and outlaws.
Lance was preceded in death by his parents, Larry and Phyllis Lahti; and grandson, Kason.
A memorial services was held on Monday, January 12, 2026 at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lewis and Clark Humane Society.
Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Lance.
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave, Helena, MT 59602
406-442-8520
Memories and Condolences
for Lance Lahti
Sponsored by Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home & Crematory - Helena.
2 Entries
Carl Freeman
January 14, 2026
Dana, I am sorry for your loss. Your husband was a great man. He and I were both Finlanders from Butte. Take care! Love Carl Freeman.
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Clint
January 14, 2026
Jody,
I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your family. Thankful for your father's service to our country!
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