George Keyser Sobrepena

George Keyser Sobrepena was born October 22, 1947, to Margaret Keyser and Ceferino B. “Tom” Sobrepena, Sr. in San Jose, CA. Shortly after his birth, his parents moved the family back to Bozeman, MT. He would spend the rest of his days living in Gallatin County. He was the third of five children, Eva, Sonny, Tommy and Bobby.

He served two years in the Armed Forces as a medic in Germany. On June 30, 1974, he married Lori Lee Hotchkiss. They divorced a few years later, they had one child together, Traci Lee.

From that day forward, everything he did was to raise and support her. He was known to work long, hard days doing a variety of jobs. From heavy equipment mechanic/operator, welder, trash man, pilot car service provider, gold panning instructor for children. The job that he is most known for and the one that brought him the most joy was being a school bus driver for the Belgrade School District for most of his daughter’s school years. He provided safe passage for hundreds of children over the years and was acutely focused on that responsibility, at all times.

When he wasn’t working, George could be found doing anything outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, until his body would no longer allow him the activity. He was happiest when he was in the middle of the Madison river in his waders chasing the elusive big one that got away. He also loved to spend time in his garden every summer. Most of Gallatin County knew him to be a guy you could get some really good garlic from.

He is survived by his daughter, Traci Trapp; son-in-law, Mason Trapp; two granddaughters, Maci Trapp (Zachary) and Kolbe Anne. He was blessed with two great-grandchildren that he never had the chance to meet but will be always watching over them, Benjamin and Monti. He is also survived by his sister, Evangelina Douma; brothers, Sonny “CB, Jr.” and Robert B., and many cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas B., as well as Lori Lee Hotchkiss.

Services will be held Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:00am at the Bridge Church of Belgrade, 608 N. Jackrabbit. Luncheon to follow. A private family burial will be held.