Brian K. Savage
1977 — 2026
From the Jun 23, 2026 e-Edition
Brian K. Savage, 48, of Powers Lake, North Dakota, died on June 13, 2026, at Trinity Medical Center in Minot, after a courageous three-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. He was born on August 23, 1977, to Harry and Mary (Rimmer) Savage in McKenzie, Tenn.
In his younger years, Brian attended school in McKenzie, Tennessee. Growing up, he enjoyed riding horses, hunting, racing cars, and spending as much time outdoors as possible.
On February 26, 1999, Brian married the love of his life, Tonya, in McKenzie, Tennessee. Together, they built a life centered around family and raised four children.
Brian spent many years working at a scrap yard owned by Tonya’s uncles before eventually purchasing a scrap yard of his own. It was a fitting career for a man who never met a piece of “junk” he didn’t think might be useful someday. In 2014, Brian and his family moved to Powers Lake, North Dakota, to pursue opportunities in the oil field.
In his free time, Brian enjoyed hunting with his brother, camping, tackling all kinds of redneck projects, listening to Hank Williams, Jr., and driving around in his Ranger—his “scooter,” as he liked to call it. Above all else, he cherished the time he spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Brian was truly one of a kind. He was a simple man with a sharp wit, a sarcastic sense of humor, and a knack for making people laugh. If you asked Brian, there wasn’t much in life that couldn’t be fixed with a cigarette, a glass of sweet tea, and a roll of duct tape. He smoked some of the best barbecue around, could fix just about anything, and always seemed to have a funny or sarcastic remark ready at a moment’s notice. He loved teasing those he cared about most, especially his wife, often worrying her just for a laugh. Beneath that playful nature was a man who loved his family fiercely and would do anything for them.
Brian leaves behind his beloved wife, Tonya Savage; his children, Chris (Paige) Savage, Beth Savage (Robbie Johnson), Dakota (Kayla) Savage, Hunter (Emilee) Savage, and his cherished grandchildren, Charlie and Avery Savage; Hadley Johnson; Caiden Johnson and Barrett Savage; Hallie Jo Savage; Riley, Oakley, and Kinsley Sandifer, and their mother, Noelle. He is also survived by his brother, Billy (Angie) Savage, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Mary Savage.
Brian’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the memories he created, and the laughter he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Burial will be in the St. James Catholic Cemetery in Powers Lake, North Dakota.
In the e-Edition
McKenzie Banner June 23, 2026
Jun 23, 2026 · Read the full issue →
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