GRAETTINGER — Brandon Lee Lear, 38, died October 2, 2026, in Graettinger, leaving loved ones with memories of his adventurous spirit, generosity and ability to turn an ordinary car ride into a lively conversation.
Services will be private. His final resting place will be High Lake Cemetery near Wallingford.
Brandon was born May 16, 1988, in Lafayette, Indiana, to Scot Lear and Kimberle Sutton Lear. After graduating from high school in Delphi, Indiana, he moved to Arizona with his brother, Nathan, to attend MMI, where both graduated.
He briefly worked as a pharmacy technician before heading to Alaska, a place that suited his love of the outdoors, wildlife and exploring. According to his obituary from Henry-Olson Funeral Home, Brandon spent six years building roads and runways in remote Alaska villages through his work with the Department of Transportation. He then transferred to the Dalton Highway, where he worked for the past eight years.
Away from work, Brandon enjoyed panning for gold, collecting coins and searching for bargains. Antiquing with his mother was a favorite activity, and he enjoyed the competition of bidding for a good find.
He also loved fast vehicles. His orange Corvette, his first major purchase, remained a particular source of pride.
Brandon’s fascination with animals extended to saltwater aquariums. He and Nathan spent time watching the fish and live coral in his tanks, and a later aquarium housed an octopus known for repeatedly escaping.
During the last three years, Brandon and Heather, whom he affectionately called “his Iowa,” traveled to Hawaii and Alaska. When he returned from Alaska for two-week stays at their home, ice cream and Butterfingers were favorite treats to have waiting.
His family described Brandon as strong-willed and outspoken, but also kind and giving to those closest to him. He treasured his nieces and nephews, took pride in their accomplishments and eagerly followed what was happening in their lives. His humor and wide-ranging conversations gave family and friends plenty of moments to cherish.
Brandon is survived by his brother, Nathan (Shayla) Lear; Heather; his father, Scot Lear; and nieces and nephews, Elijah, Jovi, Nick and Bell.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Kimberle; his grandparents; and his uncle, Sonny Sutton.
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