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James "Les" Graham

1942 - 2025

James "Les" Graham obituary, 1942-2025, Bozeman, MT

BORN

1942

DIED

2025

FUNERAL HOME

Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service

113 South Willson Avenue

Bozeman, Montana

James Graham Obituary

Les Graham was born September 8, 1942, in Upton, CA. He passed away on October 22, 2025 surrounded by family. Les' early years were spent on ranches in New Mexico and Colorado. The family eventually settled on a ranch east of Miles City, on the Powder River, in 1955. Miles City was always "home."

Les traveled extensively around the state of Montana; first as the Administrator of the Brands Enforcement Division and later as the Executive Secretary for the Montana Department of Livestock. After retiring in 1991, Les began his own business, Les Graham and Associates, where he continued to serve and work with the agricultural industry at the agency, legislative, and producer levels. In addition, Les served as the executive secretary for the Montana Livestock Auction Markets until the time of his passing. Les was respected as being a straightshooter and recognized for his discernment regarding ag bills and his knowledge of and ability to work with all people. He had a large impact on the Montana agriculture industry in his time and touched many lives.

There is not a community in the state in which Les did not know someone or have a story to share about. Les loved people. He would walk over to anyone and initiate a conversation everywhere he went. Les had no tolerance for arrogance, the agendas of politics, bureaucracy, or anyone mistreating animals. He loved to tease and joke and was known as "the Les" to many of those working the front line of the businesses and organizations he dealt with. Les will be sorely missed by all.

He is survived by his wife, Diane; Daughters, Joslyn (Jeff) Davidson, Susan Graham (Kelly Burgess); Son, Jimmy (Anna) Graham; in addition to Daughters, Debby (Leo) Ramone, Kaaren Ross (John), and Stacy (Ron) Avila; Grandchildren, Abbey, Katie, Jaden, Allie, Kalin, Graycie, Bryce, and Blake; Great grandchildren, Steele and Louisa; Sisters, Sharon (Pat) McKittrick and Mary (Herb) Kron; and Brothers, Bob Graham and Pat (Lanette) Graham; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are in the care of Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service. www.dokkennelson.com James "Les" Graham

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Miles City Star from Nov. 8 to Nov. 9, 2025.

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Funeral services provided by:

Dokken-Nelson Funeral Service

113 South Willson Avenue, Bozeman, MT 59715

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