Karl Ingebrigtson

Karl “Butch” Ingebrigtson, 87, of Great Falls, Montana passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born July 30, 1938, in Great Falls, Montana, to Karl and Celia Ingebrigtson, Butch was raised in Power, a small farming community north of the city. In his early teens, his family moved to Valier, where he attended school and met the love of his life, Ilene Berkram. The two were inseparable from the start and were married on December 30, 1956, sharing over 57 wonderful years together before her passing.

Butch was a hardworking, dedicated man who built a life rooted in family, community, and helping others. He owned and operated Imperial Masonry for many years and later co-owned Poulsen’s Hardware, both respected local businesses that reflected his craftsmanship, integrity, and drive. Butch was constantly working—he simply couldn’t sit still. Even in his later years, he was always on the go, lending a hand, fixing something, or helping someone in need.

Beyond his work, Butch was a proud and active member of the Uptown Optimist Club, where he poured his heart into volunteering and making a difference in the lives of others. He was also a devoted caregiver, especially to his beloved granddaughter Krystal, to whom he gave round-the-clock care and unconditional love.

Known affectionately as “Gramps” by many, Butch’s kindness, humor, and quiet strength left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He found great joy spending time at the cabin, one of his favorite places to relax and reflect. His steady guidance, selflessness, and unconditional love will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents Karl and Celia Ingebrigtson; his beloved wife Ilene Berkram Ingebrigtson; his children Brent Ingebrigtson and Vicki Forsman; his sister Lonnie Stokes; and his granddaughter Krystal Steiner

Butch is survived by his daughter Lauri Ingebrigtson; sisters Lorraine Severson and Phyllis McGrew; grandchildren Dallas Lopez, Blake Ingebrigtson, Chandra (Brian) Vislay, Stephanie Jett, Chad Ingebrigtson, Cody Forsman, and Stephen (Lindsey) Brown; and great-grandchildren Kaelee Vislay, Tyler Lopez, and Zander Vislay.

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Ecclesiastes 3:11

A celebration of life will take place in Great Falls this spring, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Uptown Optimist Club or a charity of your choice in Butch’s honor.