Clifford Leroy Brenneman, 94, died Feb. 22, 2026, following a fall that resulted in a subdural hematoma. He was born April 7, 1931, in Tofield, Alberta, to Daniel D. and Mary Ellen (Kauffman) Brenneman. He moved with his family to Creston, Mont., in 1942 and lived the remainder of his life under the big sky, framed in the backdrop of the Swan Range. In line with his Anabaptist faith, he served with Pax as a conscientious objector, helping rebuild Europe after World War II. 

On Sept. 9, 1955, he married Shirley Jean Oesch, and together they raised seven children on their dairy farm east of Kalispell. He chose a life of farming because he wanted to have time for his children. He coached Little League teams, refereed basketball games and attended countless Flathead Brave football, basketball and soccer games to support his children and grandchildren. Deceptively competitive at Scrabble, he won more often than he lost, with a gentle smile.

Clifford showed up for his church and his Creston community. He served as a volunteer fireman and was part of the first group to organize the Creston Auction, which became a fundraising phenomenon. He lived out his Anabaptist faith, showing a deep commitment to learning from scripture and living the principles of love, grace and forgiveness. He was kind and generous, and his family is grateful for the rich legacy he gave them.

He is survived by his children, David (Lorri), Mary (Lowell) Yoder, Calvin (Twila), Joyce (Doug) Gross, Karen (Jerrold) Moon and Carl (Amber); 21 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister Kathryn Lapp and brother Delbert (Lola). He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; son Joseph Brenneman and granddaughter Erin Brenneman. A celebration of life service will be held June 28 at Mountain View Mennonite Church in Kalispell.