Clayton Harlow Brekke, 83, Lisbon, formerly of Velva and Minot, passed away Friday, November 6, 2015, at Essentia Health in Fargo.

Clayton was born September 6, 1932, in Velva, North Dakota, the son of Samuel and Ethel (Knutson) Brekke. He was raised on the family farm near Velva and began his education in a one-room country school, later attending Velva High School, where he was an avid participant in the Future Farmers of America (FFA). In 1952, Clayton entered into active duty service with the US Army Infantry. He served his country during the Korean Conflict until receiving an honorable discharge in 1954, after which he continued to serve in the US Army Reserves until 1960.

Clayton was once married to Marie Holmes Volk, who mothered his four children. He worked as a truck driver with Farmers Union Elevator and Nash Finch Company, both in Minot, and spent many years farming around Voltaire and Simcoe. Most recently, he had been employed at Dakota Midland Grain in Voltaire for 10 years. In 2012, Clayton became a resident of the North Dakota Veterans Home in Lisbon.

An avid fan of Lawrence Welk, a superb ballroom dancer, and very meticulous about his appearance, Clayton always dressed sharp. His love of farming was apparent in his nice, straight crop rows, and he showed all who knew him just what it takes to be a true horseman with his elegant riding.

He was a participating member of: The Veterans of Foreign War, Eagles, Moose, and American Legion.

Clayton's loving family includes , children, Rick (Renee) Brekke, Minot, Robyn (Doris) Brekke, Minot and Tammy Brekke, Minot; grandchildren, Cassandra (Danielle) Brekke, Christopher (Katie) Brekke, Taylor(T.J.) Brekke, Cody Brekke; great grandchildren, Caitlyn Bertsch, Natalie Bertsch, Odin Brekke and Magnus Brekke; sisters, Joanne (Loran) Guenther, Bismarck, Sylvia Carr, North Carolina, Nell Marie Killip, Minot; brothers, Severin (Bonnie) Brekke, Voltaire and Duane (Jeanne) Brekke, Minot; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Clayton was preceded in death by his parents, ex-wife, Marie; son, Ryan and a brother, David.

Funeral service : Thursday, November 12, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in First Lutheran Church, Minot.

Graveside service : Friday, November 13, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in the ND Veterans Cemetery, rural Mandan.

Visitation : Wednesday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

In lieu of flowers memorials should be sent to your preferred charity.