Allan D. Braaten, 58, passed away after a very courageous battle with cancer, on Oct. 19, 2010. He was born in Rhame, N.D., on Sept. 19, 1952, to Kenneth and Eunice Braaten. He was raised on the family farm in Rhame and graduated from Rhame High School in 1970.
Allan married Nola McGee and for 18 years they faced life¡¦s ups and downs together with their children. Allan served all his life as a professional "tinkerer.¡¨ He could fix anything from rusted out cars to his children¡¦s skinned knees, his skills were well known. If he wasn't tinkering he was either on his Harley Davidson, at a classic car show with the "Fat Rat," or fishing on a lake plotting his next motorcycle adventures. He was a man of few words but with a heart of gold and ears that could listen to you forever. He was kind, compassionate and always strove to retain an open mind (except in the realm of politics - Love ya and like ya DAD! ƒº)
Those mourning his loss include mother Eunice Braaten; father Kenneth Braaten; brother and sister-in-law Terry and Leslie Braaten; brother and sister-in-law Gerald and Gail Braaten; sister and brother-in-law Penny and Mike Douglass; daughter and son-in-law Carly and Michael Gerrard; daughter Heather Braaten; son Dustin Braaten.
Allan was a mentor and a source of quiet strength to his grandchildren Andrew Hansey and Aria Braaten and to his numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Friends and family will continue his legacy by living their lives to the fullest in his honor.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to Kootenai County Cancer Center so they can further their research and support for those afflicted with esophageal cancer. Allan also supported Toys for Tots, Make a Wish, and various other charities dedicated to children. Any gift in his name to such charities will honor him.
Services will be held at Bethany Church on Saturday November 27th at 11am. All are welcome.