Leland 'Lee' Carl Brekke, 81

Leland “Lee” Carl Brekke, 81, of Bozeman, passed away on Sept. 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer that spanned more than 10 years. He faced that fight with bravery and determination, never giving up, right to the end.

Known affectionately as “Lee the Bee” and “Ol' What’s-His-Name,” Lee lived a big, bold life. He never met a stranger, and his love for family, friends, and community was woven into everything he did.

Lee was born on Jan. 19, 1945, in Plentywood, Montana, to Ivar and Edythe Bolstad Brekke. He attended school in Antelope and went on to graduate from Montana State University. A proud Bobcat and devoted booster, Lee carried his love for his alma mater throughout his life.

A talented athlete, Lee excelled in basketball and baseball. Later, he shared his love of sports by coaching his children, bringing his enthusiasm and competitive spirit to the sidelines. Being involved in his kids’ and grandkids' lives and cheering them on meant so much to him.

Lee’s work reflected his entrepreneurial spirit. His career included construction and contracting, work as a Snap-on dealer, and owner of Belgrade Tire. Over the years, he lived in Reserve, Great Falls, Bigfork, Bozeman, and several other states, making friends and building connections wherever life took him.

Community mattered deeply to Lee. Through his involvement with the Elks, Eagles, Belgrade Chamber, and Bobcat boosters, he stayed connected to the people and places he loved. He had a way of turning a simple conversation into a friendship, and there was always room in his life for one more friend.

Lee loved showing cars, watching races, playing golf, boating, and a good game of cards. He was a dog lover and happiest when surrounded by family and friends. Whether at a car show, cheering on the Bobcats, or gathered around the card table, he brought his unmistakable personality and love of life with him.

In 2000, Lee met Florence Krinitt, beginning a love story that would span the last 26 years of his life. They found happiness in one another and built a life filled with love, companionship, and shared memories. Florence was his beloved partner through life’s joys and its hardest days.

Above all, Lee treasured his family. He is survived by his wife, Florence Krinitt; daughter, Dawn Owens; sons, Travis and Aaron Brekke; stepdaughter, Eryn Peralta; five grandchildren, Madison, Bridger, Ellis, Beaudy, and Dayne; and three great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Ali, and Amina. He is also survived by his sisters, Anita, Linda, Bonnie, Bethe, Ina, and Kathy; his brother, Ronnie; and many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ivar and Edythe Brekke; his brothers, Gary, Arliff, and Steve Brekke; his stepson, Perry Krinitt; and his former wife, Bonita Brekke.

A celebration of Lee’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Oct. 25 at Grace Bible Church in Bozeman with a reception to follow. 

Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a man whose life gave them so much to remember.

Lee leaves behind a lifetime of stories, friendships, and love. To those who knew him, he will always be Lee the Bee, Old What’s-His-Name, Dad, Ampa, and a friend—unforgettable, deeply loved, and forever missed.

Arrangements are in the care of Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service. To leave condolences, visit www. dokkennelson.com.