Brett Michael Partridge was born on March 28, 1958 in Billings, Montana to James Michael and Ella Mae Partridge.

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Brett graduated from Brighton High School in 1976. He married his high school sweetheart, Kimm Evelyn Rodda, in 1977, to whom he was married for over 43 years. They welcomed their son Jarred Michael in 1978 and their daughter Erinn Mae in 1982. Brett attended the University of Utah and graduated in 1983 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering. Next he attended Purdue University for his Master’s Degree in the same field, graduating in 1985. His daughter Deveree Roanne was born that same year.

Brett enjoyed a long career in construction, making lifelong friends at Pankow Builders and Layton Construction. Brett worked hard and played hard, too. He always made time for his family, taking Kimm and the kids on countless trips and outings throughout their childhood and beyond. He enjoyed many trips with his friends and colleagues over the years as well, from annual deep sea fishing trips in Alaska to motorcycle rides across the country with his high school buddies.

Brett lived life to the fullest and was passionate about everything he did. Brett was an avid cyclist, hunter, fisherman, motorcyclist, scuba diver, skier, golfer, hiker, wine, whiskey and fossil collector, home chef and baker, pinball wizard, and world traveler - to name a few! He lit up every room he walked into with his genuine smile, infectious laugh, and endless humor.

Burt, as he was lovingly referred to by many in his inner circle, was quick to make new friends wherever he went, mostly by sharing embarrassing stories and irreverent jokes. Brett’s heart was huge and generosity unmatched. He was very proud of his children and spoke of them often. Perhaps his greatest joy in life, though, was being Papa to his grandchildren. He stepped into that role with boundless energy and dedication, hosting “Papa Camp” twice a year and spending birthdays and holidays with his grandkids whenever he could.

Sadly, in June 2020, Brett was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a rare and incurable form of cancer. This diagnosis sparked many physical, emotional, and mental challenges, all of which hit him hard and at the same time. Brett waged an intense and desperate battle against these challenges. He was making positive strides in his battle against cancer but it all took a terrible toll on his mental health, which tragically led to Brett taking his own life on December 17, 2021. Although the end of his life was marked by heartache and tragedy, the rest of his life was filled with triumphs, joy, humor and above all else, unwavering love for his family and friends. That is how Brett’s legacy will be remembered.

Brett is survived by his mother Ella Mae and sister Ruann Marie Partridge; his three children Jarred Michael Partridge (Amy), Erinn Mae Contreras (Pete), and Deveree Roanne Partridge (Drew); and his six grandchildren Summer Evelyn (9) and Leo Francisco (7) Contreras, James Michael (8), Olivia Mae (8), and Nathan Michael Partridge (4), and Shiloh Brett Taylor (1.5).

Brett loved hosting parties and celebrating everything in a big way. In honor of Brett and the incredible life he lived, Brett’s family is hosting a Celebration of Life at the Cleone Peterson Eccles Alumni House on Saturday, April 23, 2022. Details about the event can be found below and at www.celebratebrett.com.

In lieu of flowers, Brett’s family requests that donations be sent to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.