On March 11th, 2025, the small town of Seeley Lake, Montana, was struck by an overwhelming sense of grief and loss with the tragic passing of Ryan Braulik. At the age of 45, Ryan’s life was cut short in a devastating car accident, leaving behind a family in mourning—his beloved wife Karmen, their young twins Kalli and Gunner, and a community that will forever remember him for his dedication, passion, and unwavering love for those around him.
Ryan Braulik was more than just a husband and father; he was a passionate individual with a love for adventure and an insatiable curiosity for customizing Jeeps, as well as educating others on the responsible use of firearms. Those who knew him would describe him as a caring and devoted family man, a loyal friend, and someone who lived life to the fullest. His unexpected passing has left an immense void in the hearts of everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.
Ryan’s greatest joy in life was undoubtedly his family. His wife, Karmen, was not just his spouse but his partner in every sense of the word. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Ryan’s commitment to Karmen was evident in every moment of their life together. Whether it was supporting her through difficult times, celebrating victories, or simply sharing quiet moments, Ryan’s presence was a source of constant strength and support for Karmen.
Their twins, Kalli and Gunner, were the light of Ryan’s life. As a father, he was fiercely devoted to them, and he made it his mission to be present for every important milestone in their lives. He would proudly talk about his children, beaming with pride over their accomplishments, and filling every room with joy and laughter whenever they were around. Ryan’s love for his kids was boundless, and he always made sure they knew how deeply they were loved and cherished.
In addition to his family, Ryan had a profound passion for customizing Jeeps, a hobby that was both a creative outlet and a way for him to connect with like-minded individuals. Ryan was known in the local community for his expertise in this area. He would spend hours modifying and fine-tuning Jeeps, always striving for the perfect combination of functionality and style. His custom Jeeps weren’t just vehicles—they were expressions of his personality, and he took great pride in the craftsmanship he put into each project. Ryan’s enthusiasm for Jeeps also led him to educate others, especially young people, about the intricacies of vehicle customization and the importance of understanding how things worked. His willingness to share his knowledge and skills with others made him a beloved figure in the local automotive community.
Beyond his love for Jeeps, Ryan was passionate about firearms. He was an advocate for responsible gun ownership and spent a significant amount of time educating others on firearm safety and proper handling. He firmly believed that with the right knowledge and education, individuals could enjoy firearms in a safe and responsible manner. Ryan often volunteered his time to host workshops and training sessions, helping others understand the complexities of firearm safety. His approach to teaching was patient and understanding, and he made it his mission to ensure that every person he taught walked away with a better understanding of gun safety.
Ryan’s impact on his community extended beyond his hobbies. He was a man who genuinely cared about the people around him. Whether it was helping a neighbor with a problem, offering a friendly ear, or supporting a local cause, Ryan was always ready to lend a hand. He was the type of person who made everyone feel welcome and valued, and his positive energy and infectious smile could brighten even the darkest days. His love for adventure and life in general was contagious, and it inspired those who knew him to live with purpose and passion.
The tragic accident that claimed Ryan’s life has left a tremendous hole in the hearts of those who loved him. His family, friends, and the entire Seeley Lake community are still grappling with the enormity of the loss. As the shock and sadness settle in, the family has taken comfort in the many memories they shared with Ryan, as well as the legacy he leaves behind. His children, Kalli and Gunner, will carry with them the lessons and values Ryan instilled in them, and they will continue to be a living testament to his love and devotion.
In the wake of his death, a fundraising campaign has been established to support Karmen and the twins as they navigate this difficult and heartbreaking time. While no amount of money can replace the loss of Ryan, the community has come together to offer their support and help ensure that Karmen and the children have the resources they need to honor Ryan’s memory and move forward. The outpouring of support from friends, family, and even strangers has been a testament to the positive impact Ryan had on so many lives. His life may have been cut short, but the love and generosity he showed to others continue to live on.
As the community reflects on Ryan’s life and the impact he had on those around him, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing every moment. Ryan lived his life with purpose and passion, always making time for his family, his friends, and his hobbies. He showed everyone around him the value of living with love, kindness, and enthusiasm. While his passing is a tragedy, his legacy of love, adventure, and service will continue to inspire everyone who knew him.
Ryan Braulik was taken from this world far too soon, but the memories he leaves behind will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. His passion for life, his dedication to his family, and his generosity will continue to be a guiding light for those who had the privilege of knowing him. His children, Kalli and Gunner, will carry his memory with them always, and his wife, Karmen, will forever hold onto the love they shared.
As we remember Ryan, let us take a moment to reflect on the importance of family, community, and living life with purpose. Ryan’s legacy serves as a reminder to cherish every moment and to never take for granted the people we love. May we all strive to live our lives with the same passion, kindness, and generosity that Ryan did.
Rest in peace, Ryan. You will always be remembered, and your legacy will continue to live on in the lives of all those you touched. Your family, friends, and community will miss you dearly, but your spirit will remain forever in our hearts. GoFundMe
