Candace Janelle (McCann) Bilile

September 16, 1958 – July 16, 2025

Candace Janelle (McCann) Bilile, known as Janelle, passed away at her home in Ronan, Wednesday, July 16, 2025.

Janelle, born Sept. 16, 1958, was raised on the Krone Ranch outside of Augusta by her parents, Millie and Max McCann. Childhood on the ranch shaped the strong, kind-hearted, 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 their pet antelope (which 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 high school at Mount Ellis Academy in Bozeman, 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 having Lupus, which led to her early retirement, Janelle never wavered.

They moved to Choteau, where she met Rodney Luinstra. They raised her daughters for 10 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 her children grow up and was proud of the people they became. She had a way of giving good advice, while always ready with a listening ear.

Her bond with Gene was something truly special. Together, they shared a kind of love 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 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 didn’t want a fuss – she would want to be remembered for her smile, advice and the love she had for the people she cared about.