Carl C. (Butch) Tadej Jr., 78, was a deeply loved father, brother, and grandfather who passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family and those closest to him. He was born on December 3, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois. When he was just two years old, his family returned to their roots on the family farm outside Geraldine, Montana, where Carl grew up as the second of nine children.
As a boy, Butch attended a one-room schoolhouse in Eagle Butte before continuing on to Geraldine High School. There, he played football, formed lifelong friendships, and shared plenty of mischievous moments with his brothers. After graduating in 1965, he moved to Fort Benton to work and start his life as a young man.
A couple years later, Carl answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. During his four years of service, he served with honor in the Vietnam War, completing two tours aboard the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany (CVA-34). Following his honorable discharge, he made his home in Helena, Montana, where he married his beloved wife, Joleen, in 1978.
Carl carried on a proud family tradition by becoming a master electrician. He owned and operated Tadej Electric II in the Helena area for more than thirty years, building not only a successful business but also lasting relationships within his community.
He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—playing cribbage, telling jokes, singing oldies, fishing with family and friends, and building and running demolition derby cars alongside those he loved. Above all, Carl cherished his family. Together with Joleen, he raised three wonderful children, Maranda, Megan, and Adam. He was incredibly proud to watch them grow and build families of their own.
Carl’s love for his children, grandchildren, and extended family was unwavering. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his warmth, humor, and the life he built with those around him. They truly don’t make them like they used too.
We love you always.
A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026 at Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A reception will follow the service in the social hall of the funeral home. Burial with military honors will take place at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison following the reception.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
12:00 p.m.
Friday April 17, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday April 17, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial with Military Honors
Following the Reception
Friday April 17, 2026
Montana State Veterans Cemeter
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
12:00 p.m.
Friday April 17, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Funeral Service
Friday April 17, 2026
Anderson Stevenson Wilke and Retz Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial with Military Honors
Following the Reception
Friday April 17, 2026
Montana State Veterans Cemeter
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
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Kori R Dee says
Carl was a gentle soul, terrific electrician & happiest when talking “electricity” 🙂
We worked with Carl over the years with our rental properties and I always appreciated his knowledge, good care with which he worked with his clients. Rest in Peace Carl.
John & Cherie Dahl says
Was a friend for many years. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family 🙏🙏🙏
Angie Sallee says
He was so sweet I am so sorry for your loss
Betty McKinney says
Beautiful tribute to your dad. He was a faithful friend to me when I lived in Helena and I treasure him. I’m so glad his amazing life will be celebrated in a great way. I won’t be able to make it to Helena, but know that I’m with you in heart. I’m thankful that I could call Carl my brother in Christ and my friend.
Kim Pouliot says
Adam and family,
I’m so sorry for the loss of your Dad. He was a great man! May your memories give you strength and my thoughts and prayers are with you!
Kim Pouliot
Rob Hollow says
Carl was always so kind whenever I encountered him out and about, my condolences on your loss.
Karleen Hanson says
Sending my love and prayers to your family.
Kelly Nilan says
He was always “King” Carl to me. One of my all-time favorites. He will be missed.
Melanie Moore says
I will always remember and appreciate your kindness. Hoping you and Joe are catching lots of fish on Hanks pond. Blessings to Carl’s family.
Kim Curry says
Joleen,
I am so sorry to hear about your husband’s passing. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Craig Martin says
Carl was a great guy. We partnered up on a couple projects over the years. A true great guy. He was always down for a conversation at the supply house.
Skip Gee says
A true loss. Carl always had a kind word to share. My father’s final cruises were aboard the Oriskany about the same time. I hope they would’ve met and talked at some point.
Flossie Shaw says
Sending thoughts and prayers to the Tadej family
Nicolle Seiller says
I really enjoyed the many conversations I had with your dad over the years. He has helped me out a time or two also! My sympathies to your family.
Darlene Abeyta says
I sure appreciate all the comments about my brother Carl. He was such a good friend to me and we hung out a lot when we were kids. He had a big heart and whenever he call me at my home in Helena, he always end it with love you whole munch.
I miss him all the time and I know he’s in a better place with the Lord
Vonnie Kruzich Evans & Carol Thompson says
I am so sorry to hear of Carl’s passing. I have not been in touch for many years but want to send my condolences to all of Carl’s family along with many prayers. Our hearts go out to you all.
Carol Thompson says
To the whole family, fond memories of all of you at the ranch when we were growing up. We send our best love and support your way at this time. Know good thoughts are with you in your time of need. And remember the good times always.
Carol (Kruzich) Thompson and families.