Edward J. Proxell (updated with service information)

Edward J. Proxell 

Edward J. Proxell went home to the Lord on January 15, 2026, just after his 78th birthday. He was born in Anaconda, Montana, on January 7, 1948, and attended Catholic schools through high school. He trained for heavy equipment operation in Idaho and worked at the Berkley Pit in Butte for some time. He then joined the United States Marine Corps and served in Vietnam, constructing roads for troop deployment. After his service, he returned to work in Butte. 

When the Anaconda Company ceased operations at the Berkeley Pit , Ed joined the Anaconda Fire Department and rose to the rank of Assistant Fire Chief. He was well­liked for his casual style and friendly attitude. Known as “Fast Eddy,” “Eddy,” or “E.J.,” he was always active in veterans’ activities in Anaconda and was a respected member of the community. 

He met the love of his life, Teresa Joann Proxell, and they were married on March 6, 1993, sharing nearly 33 wonderful years together. Ed loved camping and fishing, and he and Joann traveled around the region for many years. After retiring, he continued to serve the community as a school bus driver and took on various odd jobs to stay active. He was also a familiar face as an usher and greeter at St. Peter’s and Holy Family Catholic Church. 

Ed was a devoted son to his mother, Veronica, in her later years, and he visited her regularly. Known for his gentle nature and good heart, Ed will be remembered as the quiet one in the family, always present but often reserved in words. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joann Proxell; his brother Mark (and his wife Brenda) and Father Leo Proxell. Stepsons Brad and Marc Ryan (Shannon); his grandchildren Brooklyn and Cooper Ryan, who called him “Peepaw”; and his granddaughter Grace, who knew him as “Papa.” He is also survived by; his aunt, Sister Anita Sullivan, a nun; and nephew Marcus Proxell; numerous cousins; and his extended family of firefighters and Marines. 

A Celebration of Ed's Life will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 27 at Holy Family Church. Visitation will be at 9:30 a.m., funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. and a luncheon to follow burial.

ln lieu of flowers, donations in Edward J. Proxell’s memory are requested to be made to the Marines Toys for Tots or to donor’s choice.