{mosimage}Alvin Chaplin Stonechild (1934 – Aug. 9, 2009)
Alvin Chaplin Stonechild, (Kate pwe ta, "Talks With a Loud Voice", traditional name) affectionately known as “Chappy” of the Okanese First Nation, Saskachewan, died peacefully on August 9, 2009 surrounded by his loved ones. He was 74 years of age and a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. A traditional funeral was held at Okanese First Nation. At Chappy’s request, his interment was held near the Okanese Bison Ranch.
He is survived by his loving wife, Ramona Stonechild (nee Rivera); his children, Judy Appel, Theresa Qwewezance, Murray A. Stonechild, Gloria Stonechild, Montana and Hawk Stonechild; brothers, John Stonechild and Robert Stonechild; special nephew, Grant Buffalocalf, Seattle, many beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren near and far; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; adopted son, Mario Neuman; adopted daughter, Sherry Smith, Long Island, New York.
Chappy leaves a legacy as beloved Okanese Elder, Manager and Founder of the Okanese Bison Ranch, Journeyman Carpenter, Patriach of the Stonechild family, Residential School Survivor, Drummaker, member of the American Indian Movement and friend of Bill W., former member of the Board of Directors of both the Red School House and the St. Paul American Indian Center. Chappy lived in the states for many years and served in the U.S. Army. The family wishes to thank all of the many elders, spiritual supporters and healthcare providers through the years who saved his life many times.
Jeffrey J. Bergstrom (May 15, 1965 – Oct. 31, 2009)
Jeffrey J. Bergstrom was a resident of South Minneapolis at Hilltop Trailer Court. He was adopted by Sylvia and John Bergstrom and sibling Kimberly Bergstrom of Fridley,MN. He passed away on Oct. 31st, 2009 at 3:27 a.m. at the Hennepin County Medical Center after 20 days of being an inpatient in the M.I.C.U. He died due to complications of a distended liver and phemonia, but was sedated and pain free under his doctor’s care.
He was cremated on Nov. 24 at 7:10 pm. On Dec. 17 from 5-7 p.m there will be a memorial held at the All Nation’s Indian Church on Bloomington Ave S. and 23 1/2 Street (3BLKS south of the American Indian Center on Franklin Ave) in Minneapolis. He is survived by his Fiance Jamea Combs, his soon-to-be stepson Arye Ashe, age 13, and his Native sisters, brothers, cousins, aunts, uncles and ex-partners with both un-biological and biological children.
If anyone who would like to help with arrangements – such as bringing a short story in honor of this man’s life, photograghs and/or art to display, and/or info leading to the whereabouts of his children and loved ones, and possible leads to his biological parents or extended family [with the alleged last name of Fourbears from Standing rock N.D.] please call Jamea Combs at 612-327-6220 or 763-432-2622.
