Gary Dale Brien Sr., 79, died Nov. 13, 2023, at Sanford Hospital in Bismarck, N.D. He was born April 28, 1944, on the farm at Medicine Lake to Julius and Joy (Rather) Brien and spent the majority of his life in Medicine Lake. He was a rifle marksman in the Army National Guard from 1964-1970 and served his country proudly. He enjoyed doing many things, but it was hunting and fishing, especially with his family and friends, that he loved most. Often, he could be seen cruising around town, most likely taking care of those gophers. He was quite the shot, even at 79. He also enjoyed his daily trips to the Medicine Lake gas station where he would sit and have coffee with his friends and visit. He also enjoyed going to the Honker Pit to visit the ladies and have lunch. He loved the visits he would have with his children and those that would often pop in and find him napping in his chair at home. He is survived by his children, Ronnette McCabe of Ekalaka, Brenda Christensen of Ekalaka, Pam Strandlund of Topeka, Kansas, Sheila Devor of Towanda, Kansas; Gary Brien Jr. of Fairview and Shawn Brien of Munich, N.D.; sister, Sheila Krug of Topeka, Kansas; and numerous grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Tracy, Brien; sisters, Iva, Ramona and Shirley; and brothers, Larry and baby Bernard. No public service is planned at this time. He will be cremated and the family will have a private service at a later date.

Sarah Rabbe, 80, of Bainville died at the Roosevelt Medical Center in Culbertson on Saturday afternoon, Nov. 18, 2023. In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. Father Paul Eberle will celebrate her Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Williston, N.D. Interment in Riverview Cemetery will follow the funeral mass. Friends may view pictures and sign a register book on Thursday, Nov. 30, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and for the hour preceding the service at the church on Friday.

Irene Anderson Erickson was born on Aug. 30, 1931, to Hans and Inga Anderson. She left this earthly life on Nov. 17, 2023. In Glendive Mont., on June 8, 1948, she married Adrine “Boots” Erickson and to this union were born four children: Bruce, David, Douglas and Elaine. Her life was exemplified by her unwavering faith in Jesus. Reading and studying her Bible was the cornerstone of her life. Her testimony and love for Jesus attracted people, of all ages, for her to mentor and guide. Her backyard was her sanctuary. She loved all the birds that would visit her yard — feeding the blue jays their daily peanuts. Every year, she tended to her flowers and planted and harvested her garden. Our family would like to thank all the nurses and providers at Trinity Hospital for the loving care given mom over the past couple of years. A very heartfelt thank you to Dr Zilkoski. Your kindness and friendship was something that mom treasured. We would also like to extend a heart of gratitude for those who visited Mom while she was at home — your visits brightened her day. To all who referred to her as “Grandma Irene,” she cherished your visits and phone calls. She was predeceased by her husband, “Boots”; son, David; and grandson, Brad Erickson. She is survived by her sons, Bruce (Tamara) and Douglas (Rosanne); daughter, Elaine (Jeff) Long; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Mom, you fought the good fight and, by the Grace of God, you finished well. We love and miss you. A viewing will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 24, at Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 25, at 11 a.m. at the Gospel Fellowship Church. (Paid Obituary)