Jack Donald Brittner

Jack Donald Brittner, 74, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula, MT, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. A man of few words, Jack's memorable one-liners, especially his famous “Are you crazy?” will be cherished by all who knew him.

Born on July 31, 1949, to John and Tutin Brittner in Portland, Oregon, Jack moved with his family to Montana in 1953. Growing up with six siblings, he remained in Montana for the rest of his life. Jack graduated from Hellgate High School in 1968. 

That same year, Jack proudly joined the United States Army, serving in Germany and Vietnam where he earned the National Defense, Vietnam Service, Vietnam campaign, Metal Sharpshooter and Marksman medals. After his military service, he pursued various careers, including selling Christmas trees in Palm Springs with his family, a bouncer, as a Production worker on the green chain at a lumber mill, and as a plant manager at Norco before retiring. 

In 1975, Jack (Eadie)  welcomed their daughter, Tina Brittner, in Missoula, MT. In 1990, he met the love of his life, Lisa Tripp Brittner. They married in 1991 and welcomed their son, Jackson Brittner. Jack and Lisa shared a life filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments with friends and family. 

The Brittner Brothers are legendary in Missoula, and no doubt many will have a fond and funny stories of Jack. He was just as renowned in his family, amassing a handful of nicknames over the years like Super Bro, El Cheapo, Nut, Uncabunk, and most recently from his beloved grandson, Da. 

 Jack enjoyed spending his time doing what he loved, and was always the life of the party. He was an avid player of cribbage and back alley, and only at the end was he comfortable with Lisa as his pinochle partner. He was good at cards and loved card tricks, especially after her had a few drinks. Jack also took every chance he could to remind you of his skills. He shared his passion for martial arts with his son that stemmed from his boxing career at the Missoula Boxing Club, and the two often enjoyed watching the fights together and even took one last amazing trip to Las Vegas to experience it live. Jack also served as a judge for the Wednesday Night Fights for several years. An enthusiastic golfer, he never turned down a round of golf, shoes, or bowling. His renditions of The Beach Boys at karaoke will be sorely missed. Jack was not one to take a vacation until he met Lisa. During their time together they took many wonderful trips. Jack and Lisa spent the last 6 months of his life taking trips to Las Vegas, Mexico, Lake Inez and camping. 

Jack is preceded in death by his father, John, his mother, Tutin, brothers Jerry and Steve, and sister Janice. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa; his children, Tina and Jackson (Kalie); his grandchildren, Sam (Ellie), Marlee, and Eugene; his brothers Jim (Darlene), Joe (Sally), John (Sally); and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Adios Jack, you will be deeply missed by all, your legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable one-liners will live in our hearts forever. 

A celebration of life will be held for Jack on Monday July, 8th at King Ranch Golf Club from 2pm-5pm.