Dane Bjorn Kamrud

Dane Bjorn Kamrud, 25, of Missoula, Montana, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in Missoula. He was born on March 1, 2000, at Saint James Healthcare in Butte, Montana, and from the very beginning was proud to be a “Butte Rat.”

As a young boy, Dane attended Hillcrest Elementary in Butte from first through third grade. In 2008, his family moved to Missoula, where he completed his elementary education at Target Range Elementary. Dane graduated from Loyola Sacred Heart High School in 2018. At Loyola he played football for the Rams.  Dane most enjoyed the good times he spent with friends and the relationships he built along the way.

In the summers during college, Dane joined a fire crew based out of Augusta, Montana, and took great pride in the adventures and challenges of firefighting, sharing stories that reflected both his humor and fearless spirit. He attended Montana State University, where he majored in Sociology with an emphasis in Criminology and minored in Native American Studies.

In 2023, Dane pursued his dream of serving his country and found his purpose when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He attended boot camp at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California, and later trained for his Military Occupational Specialty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, graduating in January 2024. Dane proudly served as a Military Police Officer with Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES) Headquarters Group in New Orleans, Louisiana until July 2025.

Outside of school and service, Dane was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing throughout Montana. He often joked with his family about being the only one who could “fill the freezer,” a point of pride he never let them forget. He also enjoyed skiing, wake surfing and scuba diving. Dane was full of life, passionate and curious, with strong convictions that guided him. He had a mischievous sense of humor, a charismatic presence, and a gift for lifting others up just by being near them. He often said, “It’s not that deep,” but those who knew him best understood that he was, in truth, a deeply thoughtful person. Fiercely loyal to family and friends, Dane cared deeply for those in his circle.

Dane faced challenges along the way yet met them with quiet strength. His family remembers him for his resilience, his loyalty, and the joy he brought to those around him. His story is a reminder of the importance of kindness and compassion toward those who face personal struggles.

Dane had a deep love for animals, especially his dog, Ellie. When he left the Marines, all he could talk about was getting back to Montana to see the mountains and to be reunited with Ellie, whom he affectionately called “The GOAT.” He especially loved hunting birds on his grandparents’ land with her and looked forward to their time together in the field. Time with his family, friends, and beloved dog brought him the greatest joy.

He is survived by his parents Carolyn and Halvor Kamrud of Missoula; his brother and sister-in-law, Brett and Louise Kamrud of Mead, Washington; his grandparents, Norm and Judy Kamrud of Choteau, MT; his aunt and uncle, Leslie and Paul McFadden of Fort Collins, CO; his aunt and uncle, Barbie and Burke Stott of Oklahoma City, OK; and his cousins, Wyatt McFadden of Fort Collins, McKenna and Cade Ruble of Abilene, TX, and Avery Stott of Oklahoma City. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Helen Hilts of Choteau. He also leaves behind many close friends and relatives who will forever cherish his memory.

A funeral service with military honors will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 1300 hours at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will take place at the Meadowlark Shelter at Fort Missoula Regional Park.

Dane’s life was a gift to his family, friends, and community. His melt-into-you hugs and dimpled, infectious smile will be greatly missed but his memory will be carried in the hearts of all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Or any other Veteran's organization of your choice.