Raymond John Brandewie, 74

Raymond John Brandewie, 74, of Bigfork, passed away April 26, 2014, with his family by his side.

“Ray” was born to James and Vera Brandewie on March 12, 1940, in Kalispell. He graduated from Bigfork High School and attended the University of Montana.

Ray married Tressa (Stroisch) Brandewie in 1960, and together they raised their family on Flathead Lake.

Ray was a true, native-born Montanan. He lived his life on his own terms, and enjoyed everything Montana had to offer. In the spirit of this state, Ray was an avid outdoorsman, orchardist and farmer, entrepreneur and public servant. He knew where to catch the biggest fish and shoot the biggest buck. He was the steward of orchards, and then tree farms on Flathead Lake. He owned and operated many small businesses, most recently a line of jams and barbecue sauces distinctly made in Montana.  Ray served his community and the state as both a volunteer and an elected official. He served his community as a volunteer in the Bigfork Jaycees, Lions Club and the Sheriff’s Posse. Ray served the students in Bigfork as a school board member, and the citizens of Lake County as a member of the County Planning board, and for two terms as their elected state representative.

Ray is survived by his wife, Tressa; three sons, Kirk Brandewie of Pinedale, Wyo., Brian Brandewie of Gulfport, Miss., and Brendt Brandewie of Bigfork; and his daughter, Sherri Dugan, of Bigfork. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by one brother, Robert James Brandewie.

Services for Ray will be held at 1 p.m. today, April 29, at the Crossroads Christian Fellowship, 7465 Montana Highway 35, in Bigfork.  

Ray’s family wants to sincerely thank all members of the Bigfork QRU for their service over the last three years. Without their help and support, Ray may not have been able to remain in his home to the end. The family requests donations, in lieu of flowers, to the Bigfork QRU.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Ray’s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Ray’s tribute wall.