Rodrik Einar Brosten, 70

On Aug. 25, 2018, Rodrik Einar Brosten unexpectedly passed away in his sleep at the age of 70.

Rodrik was a surprise when he came into the world on June 3, 1948, 10 minutes after his twin brother, Henrik. The doctor had told his mother that she was not having twins.

His father, Henry Brosten, was a Norwegian immigrant who came to Montana at the age of 16. His mother, Magdalyn Strand Brosten, was a North Dakotanwho came to Montana at the age of 5. Rodrik learned to be a good citizen from his father and he received his passion for justice from his mother.

Rodrik grew up in the Swan River community on the edge of the wilderness at the end of 1.5 miles of ruts in a log cabin with no electricity, no telephone and no indoor plumbing. To share his life, he had four siblings, 19 cousins and a closeknit community.

Rodrik attended Swan River Grade School and graduated from Bigfork High School in 1966, where he participated in sports and other activities. He received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Montana State University. To pay his way through college, he worked as a smokejumper for the U.S. Forest Service and had 48 jumps. He honorably served his country for two years in the U.S. Army.

For most of his life, Rodrik worked as a machinist. When he was young he, his twin brother Henrik and his father built many homes, churches and other buildings in the valley. He was always available to help his family and friends with projects.

Rodrik developed two passions as he got older. One was for golf, which he enjoyed playing with his friends. The other passion was participating in politics. He ran for office after one Flathead legislator proposed a bill for Montana to secede from the United States. Campaigning for office was difficult for him since he was a very private person. However, he was dedicated to preserving our democracy and felt he needed to be involved.

Rodrik had a very kind and soft heart for animals. His most treasured pet was his cat Sammy, whom he rescued on the streets of Portland.

Rodrik was preceded in death by his father Henry, his mother Magdalyn, and his brother Mark.

He is survived by his partner, Irene Johnson; his siblings, Deanna Conley (Robert), Arne Brosten (Alice), twin Henrik Brosten (Robanna) and Kariena Brosten (Butch); nieces Della and Jessie, and nephews Bryan, Mark and Troy.

A public viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home in Kalispell. Graveside services are at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31, at Bethany Lutheran Cemetery, followed by a reception at Swan River Community Hall, Bigfork.

Memorials may be made to All Mosta Ranch, P.O. Box 937, Marion, MT 59925, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.