BELLE FOURCHE, S.D. — The Belle Fourche and Northern Hills communities are mourning the loss of Colby Lee Crago, a longtime rancher, outfitter, volunteer firefighter, husband, father, and dedicated community member who passed away at the age of 46.

Colby’s passing has left family, friends, fellow firefighters, rodeo competitors, and community members grieving the loss of a man remembered for his commitment to service, his love for his family, and the many relationships he built throughout his life.

Born on January 30, 1980, in Miles City, Montana, Colby was the son of Linda (Simons) and Bruce Crago. He grew up near Belle Fourche and graduated with the Class of 1999. Throughout his life, he remained deeply connected to the ranching lifestyle, the Western way of life, and the communities he proudly served.

On September 22, 2002, Colby married Tanya Giannonatti. Together, they built a family and shared nearly 24 years of marriage. Those who knew Colby remembered him as a devoted husband and father who took great pride in his children and cherished the time spent creating memories with his loved ones.

Colby dedicated more than two decades to operating Crago Outfitting while continuing his work as a rancher. He was also a longtime volunteer firefighter, serving for more than 20 years with the Butte Volunteer Fire Department and also volunteering with the Vale Fire Department. His dedication eventually led him to serve as Assistant Fire Chief, reflecting his commitment to protecting and helping others.

Beyond his professional and community service, Colby had a deep passion for team roping and rodeo. He competed in various events throughout his life and achieved a memorable accomplishment in 2013 when he won the Rope-Off competition at the Wrangler Team Roping event in Buffalo, Wyoming. His love for the sport also extended to supporting and coaching others, especially his own children.

As his daughters grew older, Colby’s focus shifted toward encouraging and supporting their dreams. Team roping became an opportunity to share experiences with his daughters, attend rodeos, and celebrate their achievements. He was remembered as a proud and devoted father who always stood behind his family.

Colby also enjoyed traveling and experiencing new adventures with his wife, Tanya. Together, they visited places including Africa, Dubai, and Cancun. One of his personal dreams was fulfilled shortly before his passing when he traveled to Africa and achieved a longtime goal.

Colby Lee Crago’s life was defined by family, service, hard work, adventure, and a genuine love for the people around him. His family and friends remember him for his generosity, infectious smile, strong work ethic, and the positive impact he made on those fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his wife, Tanya; daughters Chloe, Lainey, and Brylee; son Logan (Tori) Nelson; his parents Linda Johnson and Bruce Crago; siblings Stephanie (Robbie) Kazi, Sentel (Nathan) Schreier, Barry (Kristen) Crago, and Justin (Stephanie) Crago; along with numerous extended family members, friends, and loved ones.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 31, 2026, at the Belle Fourche Community Recreation Center Auditorium, with Pastor Stephen Carson officiating. Visitation will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday at Leverington Funeral Home of the Northern Hills in Belle Fourche. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery in Spearfish.

As the Belle Fourche community continues to mourn, Colby’s legacy will remain through the family he loved, the people he served, the firefighters he stood beside, and the many lives he influenced through his kindness and dedication.

May Colby Lee Crago rest in peace. May his family, friends, and community find comfort in the memories they shared and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only and not all information is accurate. Details regarding Colby Lee Crago’s death, obituary, funeral arrangements, memorial services, and personal history should be confirmed through official statements from his family, funeral home, or other authorized sources. The family will share additional obituary, funeral, and memorial details when they are ready.