Brad was born to Renhold and Hildagerd (Klaprodt) Bengtson in Hartford, Connecticut on March 9, 1948.
Having the Hockanum River as his playground, he would spend hours with his friends going on adventures. He helped his Pops deliver milk for Bergren’s Dairy and packages for G. Fox at Christmas time. He also participated in Little League Baseball for several years. Being quite mischievous, he and his brother got into a fair amount of trouble, much to the chagrin of his parents and sister.
In 1966, Brad joined the US Marine Corps honorably serving in Vietnam from 1967 through 1969 as an anti-aircraft/warfare electronics operator working in close communication with personnel at Da Nang Airbase. He obtained the rank of Corporal.
He was an accomplished drummer and gravitated toward the Big Band Era and Swing. He was also skilled in Chicago Blues and Jazz, fronting several bands over the years. He loved golf, taking it up again as an adult and actively participated in several golf leagues. He had a sharp mind and a gift for dates, history in general, and movie trivia recall.
Brad had a charismatic personality and planned many fun outings. Notably he was intrigued by the Battle of the Little Big Horn and General George Custer and literally spent years studying all angles and differing opinions on what transpired there. He planned a guided horseback ride along the actual route Custer and his men took. This along with a keen interest in the history of the Old West, Outlaws, and Lawman rounded out his interests.
He could spin a great story mixing humor with unpleasant memories.
Brad could not have children of his own but thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren being a part of his life.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Judy; sister, Diane (Tom)Barnes; stepson, Ben from his first marriage; stepchildren, Ingrid (Karl) Ryder, Donovan (Sarah) Neujahr, and Paul (Christina) Neujahr; (ex) stepdaughter-in-law, April Neujahr; 15 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Brad was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Rennie; and stepson Gabe.
A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at Highland Cemetery on May 31, 2024, at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Pet Paw See in Great Falls. Condolences for the family may be shared online at www.OConnorFuneralHome.com.
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