The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Herbert Eugene Briese, 100, passed away surrounded by family and friends in Fort Benton on July 18, 2017. Graveside services with military honors will be held at the Fort Benton Cemetery on August 19 at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow at The Clubhouse in Fort Benton.

Herbert was born on the homestead five miles north of Loma on September 9, 1916 to Emil John (EJ) Briese and Anna Lola Atwood Briese. He spent his school years riding horseback to the Briese Country School and later attended high school in Fort Benton. Herbert farmed until his induction into the Army in March of 1942 where he served as an engine mechanic in the 4th Armored Division. On June 6, 1944, he landed on Omaha Beach a feat he rarely spoke about. Herbert continued his World War II service in the European Theatre and was honorably discharged in October of 1945. Following his discharge Herbert returned to his quiet life of farming outside of Loma.

On August 18, 1946 Herbert married Mary Virginia Embleton in Fort Benton. Herbert and Mary continued farming part of the original Briese homestead that was established in 1913. They raised their six kids on the farm which remains in the family today. Herbert also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping throughout his life. He enjoyed the family elk hunts that included his sons and sons-in-law on the Sieben Ranch outside of Cascade where he shot his last elk, a 6-point bull, at the age of 81. Herbert also found great enjoyment in watching his kids and grandkids catch fish and water ski out of his boat at Tiber, Holter and occasionally Fresno Reservoirs. He also enjoyed the cool air of the Bear Paw Mountains and looked forward to celebrating his birthday next to a campfire surrounded by family.

Mary preceded Herbert in death one day short of one year ago. He was also preceded in death by his parents, brothers Howard and Lloyd Briese, and sisters Grace Senef, Laura McKeever, Annabel Schoonover and Beulah Thurber. Herbert is survived by his children, Clinton (Linda) Briese, Darrel (Shirley) Briese, Debra (John) Grass, Kim Briese, Deena (Dave Manix) Briese, and EJ (Anna Burrougs) Briese. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Herbert spent the last three years of his life at the Sunrise Bluffs with help from caring nurses Naldean Nash and Brenda Price. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Brenda & Naldean for all of their wonderful care and assistance. Donations can be made to the Sunrise Bluffs or the charity of one's choice. Benton Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Please visit Herbert's online memorial page and leave a message of condolence for his family at http://www.bentonfh.com.

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