Landis Bjorgen died Dec. 19, 2024. He was born Aug. 7, 1952, in Williston, N.D., to Pearl E. (Baker) and Bernard (Bob) Bjorgen. He was the eldest of four children.

Raised with his siblings, Gail, Colleen and Virgina (Ginger), on a dairy farm, he graduated from Ronan High School in 1971. He attended an airline school in Texas in 1975.

He married Christina Thomas on Aug. 25, 1973, and they had three children: Shawn (March 1975), Holly (February 1976) and Christina (October 1977). Landis worked at the sawmill in Polson, and then began driving trucks, which he enjoyed immensely and experienced many adventures.

The family moved to Nome, Alaska, in 1980. Landis began working in air cargo and then transitioned to mining for Alaska Gold. He met Sharla Pate in 1990, and they had two children: Landis Jr. (February 1992) and Tanis (March 1998). While in Nome, he was actively involved with the Lions Club.

Landis moved back to Ronan in 1999. Over the next 12 years, Landis spent his time between Ronan/Pablo, and Spokane, Wash., and Hot Springs, Mont. He returned to driving trucks between Washington and Montana until he retired.

In 2012, he settled in Spokane, Wash., and remained there until his passing.

Landis enjoyed riding his motorcycle, fishing, hunting, camping, making lefse, visiting with family and friends, and long-haul truck driving. He was dedicated to providing and caring for his family, and generously giving to others.

Landis is survived by his five children: Shawn (Alicia) Bjorgen of Anchorage, Alaska, Holly Bjorgen of Juneau, Alaska, Christina (James) Agloinga of Spokane, Wash., Landis Bjorgen Jr. of Nome, Alaska, and Tanis Bjorgen of Nome, Alaska; nine grandchildren; three sisters, Gail (Dale) Stiteler, Colleen (Stan) Kindred, Virginia (aka Ginger) Bjorgen and Bob McKean, who Landis considered his brother; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Landis is preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Pearl Bjorgen, and an infant sister, Jean Louise.