William “Bill” Miles Finlen, Age 90, of Butte

William Miles “Bill” Finlen of Butte Montana was born in Butte on May 30^th 1935 passed away peacefully in his apartment at the Springs Cottages surrounded by his immediate family in Butte on November 30^th 2025 at age 90. Bill is survived by his two sons, and daughter-in-law W. Miles and Jacquie Finlen of Butte, and James Allen Finlen, and their mother Sally S. Finlen of Plantation Florida. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins across the United States. Bill was preceded in death by his parents James and Ruth Finlen, sisters Donna Heimes and Ruth “Roostie” O’Brien, and brother James T Finlen. In his final days Bill was also accompanied by his step-grandson Liam McCarvel, with whom he had a special relationship.

Bill attended a local Catholic education from Butte Central Schools. He attended Colorado A&M seeking an education in agriculture, Carol College while considering the priesthood, and graduated from the University of Montana with degrees in Political Science and History. His professional career was in sales, training, and management with New York Life, and volunteered with New Mexico Aids Services.

Bill loved to host entertainment, meet new people, and travel. He lived in Montana, California, Florida, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington DC, and Arizona. He traveled through Europe, the orient, and Canada. Bill was an avid story teller, and loved recounting his travels, historical accounts of Butte, and always showed genuine interest for friends and family.

He chose to be cremated by Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services. His Catholic funeral service will be held at St. Ann’s Church in Butte on December 15^th at 11:00 am. A private burial will take place in the spring of 2026 at Holy Cross Cemetery alongside of his grandparents.

Please comment below to share a memory or leave a condolence for Bill

Axelson is privileged to care for Bill and his family.

Service Schedule

Funeral Mass

11am

Monday December 15, 2025

St. Ann's Catholic Church

2100 Farragut Ave

Butte, MT 59701

View map

Share

Send flowers

Please visit the floral shop page for assistance in choosing a local florist.

Photo Gallery

No photos have been submitted yet.
Click here to share yours.