Joseph Jerome Kanta, 87, passed away in his sleep on September 27th in the home he had built. With his wife of 59 years by his side, Joe slipped away in the early morning hours of the day. Joe was born September 18, 1936 at the family homestead south east of Sumatra, Montana to parents Frank Kanta and Zusia "Susan" Rusnak.

Joe attended school in Sumatra and enjoyed playing basketball with his friends. One year, his high school team was only one win away from going to state, but were defeated by the Belfry Bats who eventually became state champions. Joe remembered this for many years, especiall...