Daniel “Danny” Roy Antila, 48, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 25, after a heroic battle with brain cancer.
Danny was born in Helena, MT to Allen Antila and Sue (Thomas) Hiltz on May 6, 1970. He was the fifth son of six boys. Danny married his high school sweetheart Luanne (Tolon) Antila on July 20, 1991 at the Cathedral of St. Helena. Together, they were blessed with two sons, Brandon and Bo.
Growing up in the mountains of Elliston, Danny was often found with either a fishing pole or a rifle in his hand. He not only loved the mountain life, but he excelled in sports, as well. He was a talented state diver, basketball player, runner, and all-around athlete. He was well known for his record breaking hunting accomplishments and massive elk and deer shed collection. Danny’s hobbies included hiking, bow and horn hunting, camping, golfing, fast pitch softball, fishing, 4 wheeling and watching the Dallas Cowboys. His favorite pastime of all was spending quality time with his family.
Danny had an incredible work ethic, which was admired by all. In his earlier days, he worked as an iron worker and pipefitter alongside his father and brothers constructing refineries and paper mills. They worked in several states including Alabama, Minnesota, Washington and Wyoming. Danny was quickly drawn back to Montana where he worked for several contractors in the construction business. He and Luanne eventually started their own business, Antila Construction & Excavation. His strong dedication and willingness to go the extra mile, not only brought success, but built many lifelong friendships that endure to this day.
Danny wholeheartedly loved and supported his family in every way. He never missed a sporting event or school function that his boys were involved in. He instilled in his sons at an early age how to work hard and persevere, a trait that made him very proud of them. Danny’s love of hunting and fishing was passed on to his sons, and while at his side, they had their own record breaking animal hunts and fishing adventures. Danny was also very proud of his nephews and nieces. He loved them very much and showed his support, attending their graduations, weddings, and hunting trips. He loved bow hunting trips in the fall with his brothers, cousin, and friends, and he looked forward to antler hunting on the Cobb Ranch each spring. Most of all, he loved spending time with his wife, Luanne, who was his best friend. She was always beside him on their many camping trips to Augusta, taking hikes together, sharing movie nights, numerous trips, and listening and dancing to music at home.
Danny was good to everyone. It was simply his nature. He never met a stranger. His quiet kindness was felt by many in countless ways, but never mentioned by him. He never expected, nor would accept anything in return. He was strong, heroic, giving, compassionate and truly a caring man that saw only the best in everyone. He would help anyone without hesitation, and he lovingly opened his home to many in need over the years, without thinking twice about it. His positive attitude pushed him through many trials in his life. Danny fully enjoyed hosting some of the greatest parties and get-togethers in Elliston, including his world-class Fourth of July events, and poker parties. He loved his friends and community and always wanted people to have a good time.
Danny always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. He loved God and has always felt that his life was blessed, even during the toughest of times for him. Giving to others is what gave Danny strength, and he stated throughout his illness that he was strong enough to handle what he had no control over. In the company of family and the great outdoors of Montana, he gracefully accepted his fate in his final months and days, never deviating from the Danny we were all blessed to know and love. He never questioned why…he just continued to be the wonderful husband, father, family member and friend that he was meant to be. He will be truly missed and forever loved by so many.
Danny is survived by the love of his life, Luanne and their two sons, Brandon (Emily Quigley) and Bo (Madi King), grandchildren Blakely and Knox of Elliston, MT; mother, Sue Hiltz of Elliston, MT; four brothers, Allen of Elliston, MT, Rich (Gabby) of Rock Springs, WY, Wayne (Nila) of Bellingham, WA, Shawn (Kendra) of Lebanon, OR; godson, Johnny (Karli) Thomas of Thompson Falls, MT; nephews and nieces, Zach, Katlyn, Tanner, Tiffany, Preston, Tessa, Tim, Seth, Slade, Kaycee, Shane, Kenzie, Kayla, Krypton, Camdon, Khandrad, and Hadley; sisters-in-law, Christy Antila of Bellingham, WA and Paula Antila of Green River, WY; Mother-in-law, Lois Tolon of Deer Lodge, MT; brothers-in-law, Tim Tolon of Deer Lodge, MT, Tom Tolon of Colorado Springs, CO, Dan Tolon of Bluffton, SC, and Mike (Lesley) Tolon of Helena, MT; sister-in-law, Terese Penix of Huntsville, AL; and numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends.
Danny is preceded in death by his father, Allen Antila; step-father, Jim Hiltz; youngest brother, Wylie Antila; father-in-law, Moose Tolon; and brother-in-law, Ed Tolon.
Danny’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Thomas Weiner and the wonderful Oncology staff at St. Peter’s Health.
“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought, and decision we make. Their love leaves an incredible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.”-Joe Buscaglia
In lieu of flowers please help someone in need in any way you can. The best gift you could give back to Danny and his family is to share your smile, kindness, and generosity with someone who can use a kind gesture or a helping hand. Danny lived by this simple rule, and to pay it forward would mean so much to him.
A vigil will be held 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 30, 2019 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. in Helena. Funeral Mass will be celebrated 12:00 p.m. Thursday, January 31, 2019 at Cathedral of St. Helena, 530 N Ewing St. A graveside service will follow the mass at Elliston Cemetery. A potluck reception will follow the burial at the Elliston School Gym, 205 W. Main St. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of Danny.
Service Schedule
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Wednesday January 30, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Thursday January 31, 2019
Cathedral of St. Helena
535 N. Ewing Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Graveside Service
Following the Mass
Thursday January 31, 2019
Elliston Cemetery
Elliston, Montana 59728
Potluck Reception
Following the Burial
Thursday January 31, 2019
Elliston Elementary School Gym
205 W. Main St.
Elliston, Montana 59728
Service Schedule
Vigil
6:00 p.m.
Wednesday January 30, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Mass
12:00 p.m.
Thursday January 31, 2019
Cathedral of St. Helena
535 N. Ewing Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Graveside Service
Following the Mass
Thursday January 31, 2019
Elliston Cemetery
Elliston, Montana 59728
Potluck Reception
Following the Burial
Thursday January 31, 2019
Elliston Elementary School Gym
205 W. Main St.
Elliston, Montana 59728
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Ed Mcknight says
Sue and family, my deepest sympathy for your loss. I can’t imagine the emotional difficulty,…but you will persevere, as you have in the past. May God bless Danny, as he has with Wylie and Jim.
Ed
Dan Tolon says
Dan was truly an amazing person and brother in-law. He would give you the shirt off his back if need be. He was there for me at a time when I needed a job, offering me temporary work til I got back on my feet. He helped so many and asked nothing in return. You will be greatly missed Dan.
Shauna Longmire says
Luann, Bo, Brandon and the entire Antila family,
I am so so sorry for the loss of Danny. I have so many great memories of Danny and his sense of humor. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Danny will be missed, but he will be a great guardian angel looking over you all.
Mary Anne McCrea says
Oh Louann and family. Danny was a fantastic young man
How lucky to have him in out life. Hugs and prayers from all of the McCrea’s
Don Skillman says
Everything in Danny’s obituary about his kindness, instant smile, and genuine friendship is so very true. I thoroughly enjoyed every encounter with him and regret not having many more. Luann, I send my deepest sympathy.
Joanie Mathis says
Sue, I am so sorry to hear that you have lost your son. I pray peace and comfort to you and your family. What a beautiful obituary ! I wish I had known him. I am sorry that I am in Kalispell this week watching 3 granddaughters and cannot attend his services. I pray peace and God’s comfort for you and your family
Rebecca Wallace says
The world feels colder and emptier without Dan. What a truly great guy. He is still busy and no doubt he is making the angels laugh, telling them stories about his adventures. Dan touched every heart he met and thoughts of him will always make me smile. I was blessed to have known him.
Bob Pennington says
Antila family,
I am so sorry for you loss. Danny was a wonderful man and a real pleasure to be around. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Kevin Fiske says
LuAnn,
I wanted to send my condolences to you and your family. I am sorry to hear about Danny. It’s been a lot of years since I last saw him….but he indeed was a great guy; fun to be around and always smiling. One of the best times ever had was with Danny and I will cherish that moment. I will be praying for you in the days and weeks ahead.
God Bless you and your family.
Chely Brubaker says
Luanne and family our hearts go out to you. We are so sorry Danny has been taken from you in body. He is still your guiding light and companion forever. You and Danny created a beautiful family now he is watching from above and in your hearts. God Bless you.
Ed and Chely
Gary Bowman says
Danny’s family
I know you’re loss cannot be measured
He left this world a better place because he was in it and I a better person for knowing him.
I will always think of him when I am out fishing or hiking in the great Outdoors he loved so much.
Gordy Pierson says
alot of fond memories from high school and beyong.
he will be missed dearly!
Jim and Jodi Slayton says
Luann and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss of Danny.
He touched everyones life who were lucky enough to have known him. He will be greatly missed. Our love and prayers..
Corina says
I’m so sorry you lost such a special person. Danny will be truly missed. I know your hearts are breaking. It can comfort you to know that God feels your pain and has promised to bring back all of our loved ones. (John 5:28,29) At that time, our tears of pain will turn into tears of joy. I hope this can comfort you at this difficult time. My sincere condolences,
Corina
Ryan Fandrich says
Luanne,
I’m so very sorry for your loss.
Danny was truly one of a kind.
Davis says
Dearest Luanne, Brandon, Bo, and Family,
We are saddened to learn of Danny’s passing, and we send our heartfelt condolences to you at this undeniably difficult time.
Danny had so much to contribute – so many talents, and encouraging characteristics such as his kindness, humor, dedication, and willingness to go the extra mile, determination, and bravery. The way he loved his family and friends and appreciated them is a quality all can imitate. Surely, Danny’s life has had a positive impact on many, and God knows this and He will not forget the good Danny has done. Find comfort in knowing that your lives will forever be enriched by having shared your life and love with Danny.
Yes, Danny’s love leaves an incredible imprint in our memories. Cherish your good memories; good memories are God’s gift to us. Remember, “God is for you a safe place and strength; a help that is readily found in times of distress.” (Psalm 46:1). The God of comfort will give you the courage and the strength to cope as you move forward and adapt to your life-changing circumstances. May God comfort your broken hearts.
Debbie (DesRosier)Brechbill says
Luanne,
I’m so sorry, I can’t imagine… Danny, epitome of “Cool Guy” & “The Best” I know your heart is broken…sending all the Love & Huggs I can, to you, Brandon & Bo…Your friend…Debbie DesRosier Brechbill
Anthony Prieto says
Luanne, Brandon & Bo-
Danny will Forever live in my Heart. My prayers will never cease for God to comfort your Hearts w/ His Love & Strength & fill the void that is now there, w/ His Holy Spirit. Danny took me “Under his Wing” back in 2004-05 & I will never, ever forget his “Giving Heart” & your entire Family, as well. You all took me in & showed me how to be a Family, serving God. Yes, Danny & I hunted Elk. Yes, we walked those mountains of Elliston.. & yes, Danny turned me into an “Elkaholic”. My 2 Boys are now “Elkaholics” because of what Danny, & then his Cousins, Bruce & Trent have carried on. But more importantly, Danny taught me how to give unconditionally. He taught me how to treat a Woman & Be the Best Husband he could be & how to be a Father & love & support those 2 Boys. So Thank You Danny FOREVER. God-Willing, I will see you on “The Other Side”& we will pick it up from where we left off….