Lifelong Saco, MT resident Brett Allen Whitaker passed away peacefully in his sleep with his wife by his side Wednesday morning, March 10th, 2021 from pancreatic cancer.
Brett was born on May 6, 1962 to Donald and Barbara Whitaker in Malta MT. He was raised on the Whitaker Ranch north of Saco where he was involved with farming and ranching. He attended elementary and high school in Saco, graduating in 1980. During high school, he participated in basketball, pep band, 4-H and FFA and was well known for having a fast car. After graduating from high school, he attended MSU-Northern in Havre, MT earning his Associates degree in Agricultural Technology.
Brett married Shirlee Arndt on June 27, 1987 in Hinsdale MT. From this marriage brought two children: a son Branden and a daughter Laurel “Hanna”. The family raised sheep and cattle along the Milk River for many years as well as harvesting wheat and alfalfa which kept him busy even though mother nature was not always on his side. Brett used to refer to farming as a gamblers hand – you never knew what kind of cards you were going to be dealt. Brett loved the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing (especially ice fishing), hunting, camping, cooking, barbequing, coyote hunting on snow mobiles, morning coffee with the guys and evenings spent with friends. Brett was always eager to lend a helping hand to friends and neighbors when it came time to work cattle, move equipment, farming, fighting fire or just stopping by to say hello. Brett loved spending time with his kids, teaching them to toss anything into a pan and call it supper, the outdoors and all it has to offer such as camping, fishing, archery and rifle hunting as well as being responsible for their own belongings, pets and livestock.
Brett was involved in Trap shooting, the Saco Shootist Society, a 4-H Shooting Instructor, a Saco School Board member, and was a member of the Masons with Kyle Lodge #96.
Brett was a wonderful husband, father, and friend. He was quiet, proud, humble, and fun to be around. He enjoyed good conversation, good food and was great at offering advice or lending a listening ear. His favorite things were family and friend gatherings, Christmas mornings, time around the campfire and the most important was time spent with his grandson Waylon.
Brett was proceeded in his death by his father Donald Whitaker.
Brett is survived by his wife Shirlee Whitaker of Saco MT, son Branden (Hope) Whitaker of Ridgeland WI, daughter Hanna (Tanner) Watters and grandson Waylon Watters of Saco, MT, his mother Barbara Whitaker of Saco MT, brother Wes (Debi) Whitaker of Saco MT as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, niece, and nephews.
Pastor Kent says
I remember Bret Whitaker as an example for his community. Bret was blessed with a loving wife Shirlee and two great kids Brandon and Hannah. I will always remember Bret as being so humble. Bret was a man that loved everyday as a farmer and rancher. I watched Bret for 27 years going from a young man to an outstanding man. Bret has left his mark on all of us. May God continue to please Bret through eternity. Till we meet again my friend and brother in Christ.
Howard and Carol Pippin says
Our hearts go out to all the Whitaker’s, a longtime leading family In our community. We realize that there is no replacement for Bret. We are thankful for all the times that Bret broad cheer to those of us that knew him well. He was our friend.
Heidi says
Brett was my favorite guy to talk to. Sharing recipes and just good, decent, chit chat. Truly a kind man. He will be missed
Sheryl Burnham says
My Dad and Brett’s Dad were friends since high school. Our families are 3 generation friends. I remember growing up and the social events were getting together to visit. Buzz cut haircuts for the boys, Weekends at the lake at the Whitaker cabin which was 2 railroad cars tied together…swimming and fishing, Time spent at the home place on Milk River. Brett attended college when I was at NMC and some of the weekends were Saco reunions with my apartment full of snoring friends.
I remember his smile and laugh mostly. I teased him unmercifully about his maverick car which had a LOud stereo and speakers worth more than the car itself. I taught his kids and they carry on his quiet observation and sense of humor. He will be missed.
Michele Monroe says
brett taught me how to make bisuits n gravy. lol still irelands favorite…will miss him and our visits…god bless
Mac and Leanne McIntosh says
Brett touched the lives of many and left a legacy of kindness and humility! His absence will be missed but his presence will be forever remembered! Rest in peace with the Lord, Brett!
Ben Andera says
Some of my favorite memories were times spent with Brett. I feel so very honored and privileged to know him. The trips to Saco were some of my best childhood memories. I had so much fun on the ranch. I have a mule deer hanging in my man cave from an amazing hunting trip where Brett was my guide. Brett was amazing to me and my family. I will always cherish our time together. God Bless
Charles Kelly says
I found Brett to be soft-spoken; yet not to be under-rated. He had a soft, wry smile, and impish grin. He was quick to help his neighbors. I did not know him long; yet I quickly came to appreciate his worth. Just an all-around good guy.
John/Sherry Demarais says
Brett was a great man and we will miss his fun attitude and laugh. We knew Brett and family through bowhunting, carp shoots, and darts. He was a good friend to all. Our sincere condolences to all of Brett’s family.