Brent Edward Nordlinder passed into the hands of the Lord in the early morning hours of February 16, 2025, with his wife by his side, after a short battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer at his home in Whitehall, Montana. Brent was just shy of his 66th birthday.
Born in San Diego, California, on March 12, 1959, he was the youngest of three children, Deborah, Linnea and Brent and the only son of Clifford and Jean Nordlinder (nee St. Ives). At the age of three, the family relocated to Bothell, Washington, where they lived together for the next 15 years. Brent graduated from Bothell Senior High School in 1977, where he also met his wife, Carla Gust, the love of his life. The couple wed in Bothell on November 18, 1979, and soon after moved to Woodinville, Washington, on land owned by his grandparents, Eric and Ruth Nordlinder. There, they started their family: Leif Allen was born on January 23, 1982, and Kyle David on January 19, 1987.
In 1984, they purchased their own acreage in Duvall, Washington, and began the long process of hand building their dream log home. Even after completing the home, Brent was constantly busy building, rebuilding, remodeling, and tinkering-whether with cars, trucks, tractors, homes, or more. During their time in Duvall, Brent joined the volunteer force at King County Fire District 45, where he rose through the ranks from firefighter/first responder to EMT and training captain over 14 years. He also joined the Snoqualmie Valley Rifle Club, where he was very involved with his son, Kyle in the junior shooters program. Another great love of his was vintage tractors, and he became an active member of Northwest Vintage Iron, a classic tractor club, even after leaving Washington.
To finance his hobbies and tinkering, Brent graduated from the Electrical Apprenticeship and began a long career in the electrical business. He retired in 2015 after 25-years with Nelson Electric in Seattle, and 45 years with IBEW Local 46.
Known for his thirst for knowledge, he was an avid reader and loved a healthy debate. A quick dry humor coupled with open hearted patience, Brent was a well loved friend and neighbor. The first to offer a helping hand.
In 2015, Brent fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning land and living in Montana. He and Carla found their property in Whitehall, where they enjoyed the next 10 years. He even spent some time buying, restoring, repairing, and selling firearms after moving to Montana.
Brent was a proud grandfather to Blake (14), Wyatt (12), and Hannah (4). He loved teaching the kids all aspects of hunting, construction, and outdoor activities, and was an avid supporter of their sporting endeavors. In addition to his wife and grandchildren, he is survived by his son, Leif Nordlinder, and Leif’s wife, Kassie.
Brent was predeceased by his parents and sisters, as well as his son, Kyle, in 2007.
The family is planning a celebration of life near their Montana home for this July.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care for Brent and his family.
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