Shawn David Ranum, 52, of Baker, Montana, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 17, at 1:00 p.m. at Stevenson Funeral Home in Baker.
Shawn was born on June 6, 1972, in Baker, Montana, to David and Deb (Crawford) Ranum. He was born prematurely but grew into a remarkably strong man, filling his parents' lives with immense joy and pride. Following the loss of his father, Shawn became the foundation of his mother’s life, providing all the support and care in every way she needed.
In 1988, Shawn’s family moved to Lewiston, Idaho. During their time there, Shawn met the love of his life, Brandye, who joined the family when they returned to Baker. Shawn graduated from Baker High School in 1991
On June 13, 1991, Shawn and Brandye began their journey as husband and wife, bound by a love that was so pure. Together, they built a life filled with cherished memories, endless laughter, and shared dreams. Their love story was one of a kind.
Following high school, Shawn proudly enlisted in the Marines, achieving the Rifle Expert Marksmanship awards. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Baker, where he worked for Superior Welding and later attended saddlery school, and learned the art of saddle making. Shawn and Brandye also enjoyed a brief time together as over-the-road truckers, exploring the country before settling back in Baker. Shawn and Brandye took on a unique venture together, running a store that combined movies, tanning, and miniature golf. Shawn's greatest business achievement was R&R Welding, a fabrication and oil field maintenance company that became the foundation for his work as a pipeline welder, project foreman, and fabricator.
In 2005, Shawn and Brandye welcomed their beloved son, Tuf Zander, into their lives. His arrival brought immense joy, boundless pride, and countless new adventures to their family. Tuf quickly became the heart of their world, filling their days with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments that they held close to their hearts.
In 2013, Shawn and his family relocated to Dickinson, ND, where he joined ConocoPhillips as a Project Foreman and Execution Lead. Shawn’s leadership in the Bakken oilfield was motivational. He was known for assembling a strong team, carefully selecting individuals who worked seamlessly together. Under his guidance, the team thrived in a fast-paced environment, prioritizing safety, maintaining schedules, delivering quality, and controlling costs.
Shawn’s talents and innovation throughout his life were truly remarkable. His creativity and skills left a fingerprint on every aspect of his life. Beyond work, Shawn found pleasure in working cattle and helping his parents with their many chores. He enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing and boating on the Snake and Clearwater Rivers. And although, Shawn was never a hunter, he enjoyed guns and target shooting. Shawn's greatest joys and moments of true happiness came from the time he spent with his wife and son. Whether it was the simple, quiet moments at home or the adventures they shared together, those times were the heart and soul of his life.
Shawn is survived by his son, Tuf Zander; his mother, Deb Ranum; grandmother, Rose Crawford; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brandye; infant son, Tuf Cole; his father, David; parents-in-law, Vernon and Philis Benjamin; and grandparents, Joe and Dorothy Ranum and Clyde Crawford.
Memorials may be given in Shawn's memory to American Lutheran Church or American Legion Honor Guard.
Remembrances and condolences can be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com
Thursday, April 17, 2025
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