Travis Tikka

Travis Daniel Tikka passed peacefully in his home on November 18^th, 2023 after a long fought, courageous battle with cancer. 

Travis was born to Barbara Molyneux and Frank Tikka on August 9^th, 1965 in Vancouver Washington. As he grew from boy to man his bold character and bright disposition preceded him. He quickly became known for his hard work, generosity, leadership, courage, humility, and incredibly kind heart. After graduating from Sheridan High School in Wyoming, Travis joined the United States Army where he served his county with pride for twenty-two years. His career in the Army took him all over the globe on multiple deployments and humanitarian missions including the Middle East, Somalia, and Panama. He wore many hats during his service. Along with Drill Sergeant, Military Police, and recruiter, the title he may be most known for is “Trusted Leader”.  Travis retired from the US Army in 2006 a decorated and highly respected soldier. 

Thereafter, Travis made his way to Missoula Montana where he earned two bachelor's degrees from the University of Montana in Sociology and Psychology. His dedication to the fields were evident to his fellow students and educators, ultimately earning him an award from the Sociology department for his volunteer work with the Poverello homeless shelter.

Montana remained “home” for Travis where he could often be found outdoors enjoying his love of nature and adventure. He was a fly-fishing enthusiast, hiker, conservationist, and avid hunter. He was an NIG contributor to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, member of a scuba diving club where he was a Master Diver with over 100 logged dives, and was involved in non-profits and outreach programs such as the Mighty Oaks where he helped mentor fellow veterans struggling with PTSD and trauma. 

Travis found a career working within the Social Security office in Missoula. Again, he proved to be a dedicated worker as well as respected and loved by his colleagues. One of those loves sparked and gave way to his greatest adventure yet; family man. In October of 2018 Travis wed the love of his life, Sara Keeton and she gave him an additional two little loves. A spitfire little girl whose finger he is wrapped around, and a strong silent type little boy, both with Travis’ gentle eyes and fiery red hair. You may think with his sharp brow and thundery voice that he was a drill sergeant in the home as well. But yet again he set an example in Fatherhood with his patience, protection, and gentleness toward his children. To know Travis was to know his dedication to his family. 

A warrior in life and on the battlefield, Travis Tikka made the world a better, kinder, gentler, funnier, and safer place. 

Travis is preceded in death by his Father, Frank Tikka, and Brother, Robin Tikka.

Travis is survived by his wife Sara, daughter Madyson, and son Mason; Mother Barbara (Jeff) Molyneau; Brother Clayton (Marlow) Tikka; Brother Jeffray (Allie) Molyneux; Sister Alyce (Darin) Russum; and several Uncles, Aunts and 118 Cousins far and wide; of which Travis was the oldest. 

A funeral service for Travis will be held on Friday, December 1^st  2023 at 1:00pm at Garden City Funeral Home. A graveside with Military Honors ceremony will follow in the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery, promptly at 2:30pm. A reception in celebration of Travis’ life will follow immediately at the VFW in Downtown Missoula.