On the evening of November 22nd, 2021, Fredric A. Bakke (Q-Tip) passed away surrounded by his family. He was 82.
Fred was born to Clarence and Janet Bakke on August 23, 1939 in Helena MT. In 1957 Fred graduated from Helena High School and served in the United States Army.
On November 25, 1961, Fred married Judith Ann Stenhjem at the Cathedral in Helena MT. This union brought 4 children: Sherri, Robert (Bobby), Stacey and Kris.
There wasn’t much that Fred wasn’t involved in as far as his vast employment history. As a young man out of the Army Fred worked for his father who owned Bakke Drug in downtown Helena. In the 1960’s Fred started his career as a lineman for Mountain Bell which took him and his family to Washington state for a short period of time. In the 70’s into the 80’s Fred and his family lived between Montana and California. While in CA Fred worked for his brother Sam and his good friend Ray Collishaw installing water systems for homes and golf courses. On his adventures back to MT Fred worked for the highway department. After these cross-country travels, the family settled back in MT where Fred went on to work as a custodian with the Helena School District and Big Sky Care center where he retired from. However, Fred couldn’t just sit around, so he worked with his son Kris for the past few years doing septic work as well as being a handy man for the Glass Slipper.
Fred was an avid outdoorsman who spent over 600 days packing in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. He enjoyed life and loved the rush. This led him to become a pilot, and for years he enjoyed flying Ole’ Yeller his plane. Fred was also a cowboy, and he enjoyed his time helping his good friends sort cattle and mend fence on their ranches. The song Huntin’, Fishin’ And Lovin’ Every Day pretty much sums up this old country boy’s ways.
Fred was proceeded in death by his parents and his beloved wife Judy.
He is survived by his children: Sherri (Brett) Davis, Robert, Stacey and Kris (Katie) Bakke. Fred had 15 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren with 2 on the way.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday December 10th at the Glass Slipper.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that you donate to a charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
2 p.m.
Friday December 10, 2021
The Glass Slipper
5720 Canyon Ferry Rd
East Helena, Montana 59635
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
2 p.m.
Friday December 10, 2021
The Glass Slipper
5720 Canyon Ferry Rd
East Helena, Montana 59635
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Jim and Sally says
Our hearts are saddened by the loss of this great man. Wonderful memories we do have. Thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.
Allen Stenhjem Family says
Well Fred fueled up OL YELLER . ,8 NINER NINER MIKE, and got permission to take off to the promise land Q-Tip will be missed by many ,he has landed with Judy ,Cas and family waiting GOD BLESS FRED…………….
Harley Warner says
I have a lot of great memories of Fred over the last 50 plus years. From Greenie reunions to hunting camp and all the things in between.
sherri m davis says
I remember dad giving the shirt off his back to a cold camper that got stranded. We were in the camper up Whites Gulch. I was just a kid. But that is the kind of man my dad was. Now its time to celebrate his life. Thank you
Dave Bakke says
Hey Uncle Fred… just found out tonight of your passing. Say hello to my folks… I will dedicate tonight’s Mass and Communion for the repose of your soul and will offer up a prayer on “The Rosary Across America” national program… Rest in Peace.
Brie Bakke says
Fred was a great grandpa, father, husband and friend. He took me to school all the way across town for most of my highschool years and never asked for anything in return. He taught me how to be hard working, kind, and strong. He always had the best jokes and stories. I’m so glad to have him as my grandpa and that he’s with Grandma Judy, his best friend Chewy and his dog Rocky, his many other family and friends and all the other pets he had like his hunting horse and dogs Austin and Kelly. Love you Grandpa, you will always be missed
Jim Haynes says
Well Fred my good friend I’m sure we will meet again and tell each other some of those great flying stories. Till we meet at that airport in the sky ” smooth landings “.
John Bartram says
So many years ago when Fred was in high school, I was the 12 year old “bratty little brother” of the girl he dated. Fred was so kind to me! He bought me a chess set and taught me how to play. He taught me the rules and how to play pool. Fred took me to “scratch gravel” and showed me how to shoot a revolver and a rifle. He bought me a super nice leather football, and gave me my first ride on a motorcycle. I have never forgotten how nice he was to me. Always hoped I might see him again some time but it was not to be. Rest in Peace my friend of so many years ago!! You have earned your reward!!
John & Pattie Gilbert says
Fred was a great man. Q Tip will be missed. Condolences to all the family.
Peggy and Mark says
Sending lots of hugs, love and prayers your way during these different times.
Bill Houston says
Don’t catch all the fish before I get there old buddy
Lorraine Karwaski says
I was sorry to hear about Fred. He always had a twinkle in his eye. Had many good hunting and good times with him, Judy and the Stenhjam family. He will be missed. Rest in Peace. Thoughts and prayers to all the families.
Sherri davis says
I remember mom telling that when dad got out of the army he rode an Indian motorcycle all the way from back east to Montana in the winter. Love you dad.
Moe says
Dearest Bobby/Kris and family;
I’m so sorry to learn of your dad’s passing. I’m so glad that I had the opportunity to meet such a cool guy. I know that he’s up there fishing and hunting with his good buddy “Chewy”.
My sincerest condolences and may the grace of God help guide and comfort you during this difficult time.
Faun Pullin says
My heart is saddened by the loss of this great man. I have wonderful memories of Fred and Judy. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.
Shannon Bright-Meyer says
I’m so glad I got to see Fred and give him a hug at the beginning of hunting season. He came into the office and bought his hunting licenses and I just had a feeling I wasn’t going to see him again. You were a good soul and will be truly missed. Fly high Fred and please tell the family how bad I miss everyone. God bless
Debbie Hamilton says
Fond memories of Fred and friends hunting up in Whites Gulch many years ago. God rest your soul Fred. Thanks for sharing your stories and your friendship!
steve lantz says
I’m so sorry for our loss. Fred was a great man. He was full of knowledge and I was always happy to see him. He is missed by all.
Diane Williams says
As Fred’s older cousin I remember him as a cute toddler and pest. When Fred got older he made a habit of running away. The family got tired of looking for him and worrying – I think we thought he could stay lost!!
Fred always had a smile and a hug and a cheery word whenever we met. That was nice.
to Fred’s family and friends, my deepest sympathy. Cuz
Jim & Denise Backstrom says
Kris & family, So sorry to hear of your dads passing. Hugs & prayers for you & your family. Always remember the happy times.