From Missoulian May 17th 2015

MISSOULA – On Wednesday, May 6, 2015, Anthony Jay "TJ" Dupras passed away as he lived while helping someone he loved, his "sister" and beloved friend Kalee.

TJ was born on Nov. 7, 1968, in Tucson, Arizona, to Billine Stuteville. He was raised by Billine and his father Mike Dupras along with his five sisters and brothers. Because Mike served as an NCO in the United States Air Force, the family traveled and lived in many different places before settling in Trenton, Illinois. TJ graduated from Wesclin High School in 1986. His college education included community college, studying whales in Juneau, Alaska, and finally moving to Missoula to study at the University of Montana receiving a degree in Zoology. TJ worked for several local companies in Missoula until he found his home at ALPS Corporation.

In 1998 TJ married Amy Rowley. They shared 15 years of marriage and had two sons, Max (13) and Rowley (10). They divorced in 2013 but remained close friends and were a team when it came to raising their amazing sons. He was active in his sons' classrooms and often coached many of the sports in which they were involved.

TJ was a dedicated, extraordinary father and loved his boys with all his heart. They looked up to and idolized their daddy. Their faces lit up when he entered the room. Max and Rowley both have his smile and TJ will continue to live on through them.

TJ was talented musician, loved reading, being outdoors, sports and was a proud Eagle Scout.

He was a cherished friend to all who knew him. Always willing to lend a helping hand. His zest for life and positive attitude will be deeply missed. His friends and family are many as TJ touched the lives of anyone he met.

TJ is survived and will be deeply missed by his sons Max Dupras and Rowley Dupras; his mother Billine Dupras; his father Mike Dupras; his brothers, Andy Dupras, Jim (Rhonda) Dupras; his sisters Tammi Dupras-Deiters, Debbie (Todd) Harrison, Kimberly (Matt) Bene and many nieces and nephews. He will also be missed by many dear friends and his family through his marriage to Amy.

A tribute to TJ was held Wednesday, May 13, in the Governor's Room at the Florence building where his ALPS family graciously hosted the celebration of TJ's life. It was a time for all who loved him to come together and share stories, tears and laughter about a wonderful man.

In support of his children, ALPS Corporation has set up a trust. Donations can be made to: The TJ Dupras Memorial Trust for Rowley and Max Dupras. The trust is held at First Interstate Bank.