In Memory of Bryan Dean Lessly

Bryan Dean Lessly, aged 65, passed away on December 25th, 2024, due to complications from liver cancer.

 

Bryan was born on August 14, 1959, in East Los Angeles, CA. He graduated from Jefferson High School in Cedar Rapids, IA, earned an Associate Degree from York College in 1979, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Abilene Christian University in 1982. His career included working as a sportscaster for KWWL in western Iowa and later becoming the Founder and CEO of Western Sky Media in Spearfish, SD.

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He married Cathy Hill on November 5th, 1982 and shared a life filled with joy, love, faith and two children, Ian and Hannah. Bryan was enthusiastic about life, with hobbies that included studying weather phenomena, stargazing, exploring NASA programs, and outdoor activities such as hiking, jeeping, fishing, and water skiing. He was a talented musician, playing piano and guitar, and enjoyed singing. Bryan, like his father, was also a pilot.

 

Bryan’s faith was central to his life. He led singing at his local churches wherever he lived and at larger gatherings across Iowa and South Dakota. Bryan taught Bible classes, preached sermons, and was a dedicated scholar of scripture and Biblical history. Bryan also served as an Elder for several years in his local Spearfish congregation, Northern Hills Church of Christ.

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Family
Bryan is survived by his wife Cathy Lessly, his children Ian Lessly and Hannah Lessly, and his parents, Roger and Betty Lessly. He is also survived by his siblings and their spouses: Terry Lessly (Debbie), Joan Kramer (Brian), Sheryl Simpson (Scott), and Lynda Brewster (Jeff), as well as numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family members, church family, and friends.

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He is preceded in death by a loving group of grandparents, uncles, aunts, and friends who will welcome him into eternity.