ny (Big Dan) Lee Trussel, Sr., age 47 of Helena, passed away at his home from natural causes on February 4, 2013. He was born on October 17, 1965 to Gary L. Trussel and Renate (Kernbeis) Trussel in Karlsruhe, Germany.
Dan graduated from Danville High School in Illinois and started his career as a transportation specialist. He met and married the love of his life, BillieJo Nettleton on June 19, 1985 in Helena, Montana. He drove for Associated Food Stores, Inc. in Helena and when Dan was not enjoying the open road, he loved helping people. In his spare time, Dan enjoyed fishing, being a handyman, talking, telling stories, bowling and riding his motorcycle. He loved to cook, especially barbequing and treating his family to his famous barbeque sauce. But most of all, Dan treasured spending time with his family.
Dan was preceded in death by his father, Gary Trussel; brother, Patrick Trussel and his grandfather, Archie Trussel.
He is survived by his wife of 27 years, BillieJo Trussel of Helena; children, Danny Lee (Mykell Lemm) Trussel, Jr. and Amber Kathryn Trussel Katrina Garrod , all of Helena; his mother, Renate Trussel of Mt. Zion, Illinois; siblings, Andy (Vicki) Trussel, Archie Trussel and Maryle Trussel, all of Danville, Illinois. Dan was also proudly a waiting to be a grandpa; two brother in laws Gary Nettleton, Larry Nettleton, and his sister in law Kathleen George(Richard). He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews; close friends of the Salminen family and the Leboutillier family all of Helena. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews; close friends of the Salminen family and the Leboutillier family all of Helena.
A memorial service is scheduled at 2 p.m., Saturday, February 9, 2013 at Retz Funeral Home with a pot luck reception to follow at Jorgenson’s Inn, 1714 11th Ave, in the Mt. Helena Room #156 following the service. To offer a condolence to the family or share a memory of Dan, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
Dan always had a smile and a helping hand for anyone with anything. He was a truly happy person who just enjoyed the company of people and visiting.
Renee' Y. Pomeroy says
My condolences to the family. Danny was a great person, good man, and loved his family dearly. I am blessed that he had come into my life. He was a fighter to the end!
Danny’s wife was integral to his progression with healthcare, but the Lord needed him more.
Sincerely and always
Renee’
Tim , Jodie ,Shelby, Karlee Branson says
Bobbi, Danny, Amber our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We have lost a good friend yet you have lost a husband and father. A person like Dan can not be replaced. He is someone that we will always remember. A true gentle giant that would do anything for anybody and make you laugh while he was doing it. His big smile and room filling laugh is what I see and hear in my mind right now. Big Dan we love ya. You will always be with us.
Kim Parvinen says
My thoughts and prayers go out to you all. Dan was a great guy with a wonderful personality. I will always remember him for his laughs, jokes, positive attitude and of course he WONDERFUL COOKING!! Dan had a huge heart and would share anything or help anybody out. He on many occasions would cook wonderful items and bring in and share with all employees. He will be greatly missed!!
Sandy Vincent says
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, Dan was always such a joy to bowl with and he will be missed very much. He sure brought out the best in people with his winning personality. God Bless buddy!!!!
Matt and Tracy Salminen says
Our prayers are with the family in your time of sorrow, Big Dan was a wonderful friend and a kind hearted soul, when he laughed he could always make you laugh no matter what kind of day you were having. He was truly a person who would give someone the shirt off his back if they were in need. You will never be forgotten and will forever be in our hearts. We love and miss you.
Brian Makowski and Family says
Dan was a great friend. We were blessed to have had him in our life. He was always encouraging and lending a helping hand whenever he could. Billie; Danny Jr; and Amber we am so sorry for your loss. Lean on God…He will get you through this if you allow him. I and other friends will be there for you as well. God speed Big Dan!!
Melanie Taylor Carpenter says
My heart goes out to the family. I will keep you all in my prayers. I remember Dan always having the greatest laugh that iminated from his very soul. And he was smiling and laughing. I will always have good memories of Dan and the entire Trussel family <3
Amber Trussel says
He was also survived by his two brother in laws Gary Nettleton, Larry Nettleton, and his sister in law Kathleen George(Richard)
Verlon and Carol Watts says
Our prayers and thoughts go out to your family. We will always remember Danny as part of our family. Gods arms are around all of you at this time of great sorrow. Danny will be remembered by his loving soul. He really loved and cared about everyone.
Bob Jolicoeur says
My old frinds I am so sorry for your loss!