Richard Lee McBreen

Richard Lee McBreen (Gardipee), 62, passed away due to heart failure on Thursday, April 21, 2022, at his home in East Helena.

Richard was born February 9, 1960, in Great Falls, MT, to Madeline Mosney (Joe Gardipee) and Patrick McBreen.

He spent 13 years with his first wife Wanda Komeotis, who continued to be a life-long friend. In 1995, he married the love of his life Janelle Brownlow.

He was a printer for many years and loved to work on cars and restore mustangs. This passion led to him to fulfill his dream of owning his own car lot. His hard work was driven by his desire to provide the best life for his children. He was happiest when he was spending time with his family. He took pride in attending pow wow’s and practicing Native American traditions, while passing down these traditions to his children. Much of his free time was enjoying camping, boating, golfing, poker, bingo and playing his guitars. He also enjoyed coaching his kids’ numerous sports and hunting with his boys. We are sure he is still giving tickets to his gun show and bribing for a foot rub.

Richard was the family patriarch. He was the one who everyone leaned on for guidance and support by being stern and compassionate when needed. While his unexpected passing will be leaving a void his spirit will continue to guide us and give us strength. 

He is survived by his wife Janelle McBreen, daughters Reanna Lipp, Brittney Kelly (Ryan) and Heavenlee McBreen, special niece Tesa Red Thunder (Flora); his son’s Billy Komeotis, Patrick Komeotis (Kendra), Skyler Kelly, Shade McBreen (Melissa), Tristen McBreen, Kaden McBreen, EJ McBreen; his sister’s Tina Annis, Clara Doney, and Starla Gardipee; his brother’s Sonny Gardipee and Jerome Gardipee (Paulette); his 16 grandkids, 3 great-grandkids and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his mother Madeline Mosney; his father’s Joe Gardipee and Patrick McBreen; his siblings Roger Gardipee, Daryl Gardipee, Glen Gardipee, Marlene Gardipee, Merle Gardipee, Patricia McBreen; his son Ricky Gardipee and granddaughter Elisa Komeotis.

Funeral Services as follows:

Wake Tuesday April 26, 2022, at 6:30PM

Little Shell Cultural Center 1529 Stuckey Road, Great Falls, MT

Funeral Service 9:30 am at Little Shell Cultural Center

Burial service 11:00am Mount Olivet Cemetery

Feast to follow at Little Shell Cultural Center

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