Danette Renee Tenas

With hearts full of love and memories, we share the passing of Danette Renee Tenas. She was born on October 8, 1970, in Madera, CA to Earline Couture and Danny Tenas. Danette spent her young childhood in Polson, MT, and at the age of four, moved to Portland, OR with her mom and second dad, Eddie Couture. She remained in Portland for the remainder of her youth and attended Roosevelt High School before graduating from Vocational Village High School. After high school, she returned home to the Flathead Reservation where she resided until her passing. A beloved member of our family, she brought joy, laughter, and warmth into the lives of everyone, fortunate enough to know her.

Danette had a huge heart and was always looking out for those around her. Oftentimes she would bring food, books, clothes, or other items to family or friends as an act of love to show she was thinking of them. She always found a way to make it to family gatherings and was always so happy to celebrate and be with those she loved. She had a special place in her heart for the children in her family. She lovingly referred to herself as "grauntie", a combination of grandma and auntie and was the best "grauntie " to her many grandchildren and nieces/nephews. She took pride in throwing water balloons, painting faces, and feeding all the children in her life.

Danette is preceded in death by her parents Earline Couture and Danny Tenas; son Drey Tenas; grandparents Carla and Jiggs Harrington, and Elizabeth and Camille Kenmille; sister Danelle Tenas; brothers Darrin Couture and Denny Wayne Johnson; nieces Lela Clairmont-Perez and Caitlin Hewankorn; and nephew Jordan Hewankorn.

She is survived by her daughters Alyza Hawk and Trinity Tenas; grandson Kaleb Hammer; dad Eddie Couture; sisters Dana Hewankorn, Danielle Lefthand, Shelly Olheiser, and Crystal Houle; brothers Jerry (Trisha) Johnson, Daniel Kenmille, and Richie Tonasket; along with many nieces and nephews and great nieces/nephews who will cherish her spirit and love forever.

A wake will begin on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 11:00 am, a Rosary Monday night at 8:00 pm, and funeral services will be Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 10:00 am, all at Elmo Hall. Burial will follow at Elmo Cemetery.