Brent Thompson
Brent Thompson, 65, of Billings died March 9, 2026.
Born April 12, 1960, in Culbertson, he spent most of his childhood and teenage years in Browning where he graduated from Browning High School. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree at Montana State University and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University.
In 1988, he married Kathryn Ensign, the woman who would become — in his own words — his 'future activities director' and lifelong partner.
He began his career in private veterinary practice, devoting himself primarily to large animals and serving the ranching families of south-central Montana. His professional skill grew handin- hand with the deep, lasting friendships he formed in that tight-knit community. In 2004, he made a significant career shift and joined the USDA as a veterinarian for the eastern district of Montana. Among the most memorable and meaningful parts of that work was his involvement during the early 2000s brucellosis outbreak in the Greater Yellowstone Area, along with the ongoing care of free-ranging wildlife including bison, bighorn sheep, elk and deer.
He was instantly recognizable for his quick wit and dry sense of humor. When asked why horses were his favorite animal, he replied without
hesitation: 'So I don't have to walk.' Many still smile remembering the sight of a 65 veterinarian deftly preg-testing cattle while folded into the back of a 56 squeeze chute.
When asked what he wanted remembered in his obituary, he turned the focus away from himself. He spoke first of his profound love and gratitude for his wife, Kathryn, and for the steadfast love, care and patience she gave him, especially when life became difficult. He expressed deep pride in the friendships he cherished among Montana ranchers, colleagues at the USDA, fellow veterinary clinics and artificial insemination industry associates. And, like most dedicated veterinarians, he remained quietly thankful for every animal he had the privilege to care for during his career.
He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Ensign; and four siblings, George, Gary, Joylee and Rhonda.
