Frank Hapa, Sr., age 63, passed away on Monday, August 8, 2016 in Fort Kipp, MT.
Frank was born on February 12, 1953 to Herman and Elizabeth Hapa in Sioux Valley, Manitoba. But made his Home on the Fort Peck Reservation.
In 1971 Frank married Margaret Red Boy and later divorced but still remained long time friends. To this union were born Faron, Michael Sr., Frank, Jr., and Arlin Hapa, Irvin and Evadna. Frank later met and married Esther Buck Elk, and from this union came his step-children; Carlos, Evron, Andrea, Nanette, and Tamara.
Frank worked various jobs throughout his lifetime. He was a well known Wacipi announcer throughout Indian Country.
Frank is survived by his wife Esther; children Faron (Debi), Frank Jr., Arlin, Evadna and Irvin Olson all of Poplar.; adopted children Carlos, Evron (Dee Dee), Nanette, Tamara, Ghandi, and Merilee all of Ft. Kipp. Brother Raymond (Teresa) of Sioux Valley, Manitoba; sisters Gwen of Regina, Saskatchewan, Winona (John), Merle (Art Greybull) of Chelsea, MT and Flora (Ron) Kaye of Sakimay, Saskatchewan; adopted brother Arnold EagleBoy, Adrien Ireland, Ronald Fast Horse; adopted sisters Beverly Bird and Vivian Yuzzicappi, Peggy Ireland, Yvette Todd, Julia, and Patti (Sly) Youngman. Frank had many adopted Brothers and Sisters throughout indian country; grandchildren Daijon, Michael, Jr., Evonda (Evie), Raymond, Elicia, Jacora, Habbukkuk, Denissa, Jay, Austin, Murika, Devon, Reese, Tori, Heather, Irvin Jr., Erica, Margaret, Jenna ,& Kensey (both of whom held a special place in his heart), and Lana; Great-Great Grandchild Mae’lee Rose Thunderchild. Other special people that Frank leaves behind are Margaret Hapa, Kristofer and Amanda Boyd, Corra Whiteman, Bud and FeFe Shaw, Josie Lawrence, Roger Yankton, Larry Thiele and Katie Thunderchild. Valerie, Michelle, Jodi, Waynette, JR Boyd, Maureen Gray Hawk, JR and Tiny Draszt and Katherine Howard.
Preceding Frank in death is his son Michael Hapa, Sr.; Brothers Herman, Carl, and Herbie; Sister Vivian Jones and Andrea Davis.
Frank Hapa, “Ahin zaza”, Walks in the Light, is originally from Sioux Valley, Manitoba, Canada however he made his home in Fort Kipp, Montana. He is a well known celebration announcer across Indian Country. Aside from announcing he also sings at wakes, funerals, memorials, and in his younger days was a grassdancer and a singer on a drum group named Hapa’s out of Sioux Valley, Manitoba. His wife is Esther Hapa and has made Fort Peck reservation his home. “I have been here on the reservation for more than 40 years and I have a lot of relatives her that came from Sioux Valley. But this is my home. Fort Kipp is my home. I always represent the Fort Peck Reservation wherever I go. I’m proud of where I have come from and the way I live my life.”
In 1986 Frank was at Iron Ring Celebration here in Poplar where the late Ben Gray Hawk who was announcing brought him up to the announcer stand and gave him a mic. There was no other announcer for that weekend so he was in the right place at the right time and that is where it all began. He really enjoyed himself and started to talk more and more on the mic in between breaks. Ben Gray Hawk was a mentor to him, helping him at all of the celebrations across the reservations. He also learned a lot from one of his cousins from Sioux Valley whose name was Mike Hopatin; he has since passed one. “At one time I used to be a Grassdancer and I used to sing with my uncles and my Dad and they had the drum group called Hapas. I was the youngest one so I know a lot of songs.”
Frank is the son of the late Elizabeth and Herman Hapa. Growing up they really held on to their traditional ways and helped us to learn and uphold our Dakota values. I was named Ahin zaza by my Grandmother. This means Walks in the Light. She said that one day I’ll be there to help the people. And that I would be used in a good way. “I’m glad to help and be there for the people I’ll do this till the day I can’t walk or talk.”
“I met my wife as casual friends. She is big support. Everything I do she’s right there to be there for me. Every memorial, wake, funeral and celebration she’s always there to help me. We’re not young anymore and we encourage each other in everything that we do. She was brought up differently; she was brought up more into Christianity. She didn’t understand the Culture of the people. She learned a lot when we lived in Sioux Valley and she seen how the people stay together and uphold our culture and traditions. And over time she’s always there for me. I’m up in age now and if I don’t feel good then she’ll come and hold me and pray for me. And it helps me a lot. My wife and I try to do a lot for other people, I was taught to never say no. If someone asks for help we always try to do what we can. I really enjoy being there for the people.
“I’m getting up there in age but the traditional life is what I love. The people who are on the red road really know who they are and where they come from. The drum beat is what makes us who we are. It’s the heartbeat of Mother Earth. There’s a lot that have questions and I know that the audience is listening so I try to teach what I know. Our little ones need a lot of teaching. Every one of us was given a calling in life. The dancer dances for us just like the singers sing. They sing and dance for us. The word “powwow”, I don’t know when we started using that term. The word we used was celebrations because we celebrate life. The word powwow is the term that the white people used to use to explain us Indians and our “doings”. We need to bring the word Celebration back to the people and to start using it more on our posters. My hope is that one day I’ll never see the word POWWOW on a Wacipi poster. Reminds me of General George Armstrong Custer…It’s a Celebration, not a ‘Powwow’!”
“I always watch what I say when I’m announcing and sometimes the Elders will come and talk to me and I always honor them. I always honor the veterans. I have uncles who served, so I always try to honor them. I try to stay humble. The red road is a hard road to walk on. To be an announcer is to speak for the people. My cousin Mike used to tell me “They hired you to be an announcer and they want you to share. The microphone is not there for nothing. Talk and tell stories or talk about yourself so we know who you are.” “It’s hard to be an announcer; once you’re up there behind the mic it’s different. It’s good. You always have to share and you always have to pray. It doesn’t come from your brain it comes from your heart. When I’m announcing and there are differences in the committees and chaos is going on. It reflects back on the people and the elders see it. As announcers we have to try to smooth it all out. We have to work together.”
“My first year I made a lot of mistakes, as years go by I stuck with it. I always try to encourage the people to keep on going. We as announcers are called to be there and speak for the people and to speak for the committees. We get to joke and make the people happy. It’s good to see the Elders laughing. When you’re announcing and watching the people, some are nodding their heads to the beat and people are happy. It’s the best seat at the celebration. I like to be at the small celebrations. I like all of our committees. Our committees work hard. Jim Clairmont complimented our people. We don’t use casino funds. We do it the old way. We get out into the communities and get the people involved and raise our money the old way for the people. If you ever want to come up and visit me, you are welcome. Come and sit with me and tell me what’s on your mind.”
“In my heart I go through a lot, whether it is life or my health. It’s the people that hold us together. For me to announce it’s what I enjoy. I enjoy being the voice for the people, whoever needs me. I’ll always be here to announce until I can’t do it anymore. We have some of the best top dancers here on our reservation. I always try to enjoy the celebrations. My favorite is when there are new little ones coming into the circle. The tiny tots love to hear encouragement, I tell then they are all Champion dancers and they really spin hard then. These younger generations are our future. We need to keep them on the right path, show them how to walk the red road.”
Looking back on past announcers I remember Matt and Jim Black Dog Family. Jim Black Dog would do all his announcing in Dakota all decked out in his white hat. Elders, remember long time ago the announcer used to be out in the middle. There was no sound system and they would keep the people informed. Long time ago there was never a Grand Entry. It mostly came from rodeo and we never had giveaways, if there were gifts to be given they just went out and gave them to them. But it’s good the way they do it now. It’s good to recognize all the dancers and all the categories. It’s good to honor our people. Not to be proud but to honor.
Frank officiates a lot of wakes, funerals, and memorials here on the reservation, he also sings and plays guitar. “in 1974 we started to sing at wakes. Try to comfort the family and be there for the people we always mourn with them. We may not know them personally but to see the families cry heartbroken, I try to encourage them and try to sing songs. But it’s what I’ve been called to do. Speak for the people, to be there for the people. Memorials are an important time to remember that loved one. We might have a feed or a giveaway a year later and that’s good. In Canada we do it 4 years then we let them go.
“I want to thank all the people that I have come across in my lifetime. All the Celebration Organizations. Each one of them for respecting me enough to ask if I’m going to talk for them, I’m always honored to help them. I’m proud of Turns Around and Wahcinca Dakota Oyate Wacipi, they are mostly all women and they are always good celebrations. Thank you to all the committees across the reservation. All of the Fort Peck rez people and I know some are gone but thank you for honoring me. All the drum groups on the reservation and the visiting drums. These are all my boys, all my nephews. I’m really thankful to all of those who have honored me in my life. Thank you to all the committees and all of the people. I’m looking forward to the next celebration “You know, I’ll be there!”
Florence Fourstar says
My prayer’s for Frank’s family and children. He was a wonderful person, and was always helpful and will be greatly missed.
Ethelyn Moccasin says
Esther and family..
Our condolences and prayers
At this difficult time.. Frank was loved by all
And he will be deeply missed..
Hugs and prayers..
Ronn & Ethelyn Moccasin
Marva Chapman says
Frank was one of my favorite people. I will truly miss him as a lot of people from near and far will. he was definitely a legend on the Fort Peck Reservation. Our prayers go out to the family and friends of this great man.
Al Bets His Medicine says
What can I say except that we lost an incredible man whos’ spirit and music touched everyone. My prayers go out to the family. Spread your mighty wings Frank and fly.
Nancy & Albert Foote Sr. says
Ester and family… Our sincere condolences to you. Frank will surely be missed – his songs and words of comfort that he shared with so many not only during their time of loss but throughout Indian Country I know was appreciated by so many. We cannot express enough the void we feel of his passing. All I know is we appreciate that the Creator shared him with us during his short time here on earth. May his voice and spirit sing loud and clear for us to continue to hear and keep in our hearts.
Nancy and Albert Foote Sr.
catherine howard says
sister in law be strong brother frank is walking with tunkasina big brother is in the angel’s wing and my prayers are with you/family be strong everyone from spirit lake tribe are sending their condolences to you / family
Karla Ricker says
Our most sincere condolences to you Ester and his family. God blessed us with Frank Happa. He will be missed throughout the Rez. God speed
Wayne & Evetta Two Bulls says
Esther and family,
We were deeply sadden by the news of your loss. Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. We will miss the presence of a truly gifted and kind person. Rest in peace dear friend.
Wayne and Evetta Two Bulls
Jenn Creeley says
Hugs to Ester and Merle.
Eleanore Good Bird says
My prayers n condolences go out to the happa family. May the lord confort you during this time.
Eleanore good bird n family
Amanda FastHorse-Boyd says
I am so sorry… What are we all going to do without you! The Wacipi trail will never be the same! My family and I will miss you so much and we will never forget you! I just wanted to share an interview I did with him July of 2015 for my “Around the Arbor” column in The Journal. I am so glad I was able to have that chance. Here it is…his words!
July 23, 2015 · Poplar ·
Around the Arbor with Amanda FastHorse-Boyd
For the The Journal, LLC
“Eyapaha in the Spotlight”
Frank Hapa
Frank, Ahin zaza, Walks in the Light, is originally from Sioux Valley, Manitoba, Canada however, he has made his home in Fort Kipp, Montana. He is a well-known celebration announcer across Indian Country. Aside from announcing he also sings at wakes, funerals, memorials, and in his younger days was a grassdancer and a Singer on a drum group named Hapa’s out of Sioux Valley, Manitoba. His wife is Esther Hapa and has made Fort Peck Reservation his home. “I have been here on the reservation for more than 40 years and I have a lot of relatives here that came from Sioux Valley. But this is my home. Fort Kipp is my home. I always represent the Fort Peck Reservation wherever I go. I’m proud of where I have come from and the way I live my life.”
In 1986 Frank was at Iron Ring Celebration here in Poplar where the Late, Ben Gray Hawk who was announcing brought him up to the announcer stand and gave him a mic. There was no other announcer for that weekend so he was in the right place at the right time and that is where it all began. He really enjoyed himself and started to talk more and more on the mic in between breaks. Ben Gray Hawk was a mentor to him, helping him at all of the celebrations across the reservations. He also learned a lot from one of his cousins from Sioux Valley whose name was Mike Hopatin; He has since passed on. “At one time I used to be a Grassdancer and I used to sing with my uncles and my Dad and they had the drum group called Hapas. I was the youngest one so I know a lot of songs.”
Frank is the son of Late, Elizabeth and Herman Hapa. Growing up they really held on to their traditional ways and helped us to learn and uphold our Dakota values. I was named Ahin zaza by my Grandmother. This means Walks in the Light. She said that one day I’ll be there to help the people. And that I would be used in a good way. “I’m glad to help and be there for the people. I’ll do this till the day I can’t walk or talk.”
“I met my wife as casual friends. She is a big support. Everything I do she’s right there to be there for me. Every memorial, wake, funeral and celebration she’s always there to help me. We’re not young anymore and we encourage each other in everything that we do. She was brought up differently; she was more brought up into Christianity. She didn’t understand the Culture of the people. She learned a lot when we lived in Sioux Valley and she seen how the people stay together and uphold our culture and traditions. And over time she’s always there for me. I’m up in age now and if I don’t feel good then she’ll come and hold me and pray for me. And it helps me a lot. My wife and I try to do a lot for other people, I was taught to never say no. If someone asks for help we always try to do what we can. I really enjoy being there for people.
“I’m getting up there in age but the traditional life is what I love. The people who are on the red road really know who they are and where they come from. The drum beat is what makes us who we are. It’s the heartbeat of Mother Earth. There’s a lot that have questions and I know that the audience is listening so I try to teach what I know. Our little ones need a lot of teaching. Every one of us was given a calling in life. The dancer dances for us just like the singers sing. They sing and dance for us. The word ‘powwow’, I don’t know when we started using that term. The word we used was celebrations because we celebrate life. The word powwow is the term is what the white people used to use to explain us Indians and our “doings”. We need to bring the word Celebration back to the people and to start using it more on our posters. My hope is that one day I’ll never see the word POWWOW on a Wacipi Poster. Reminds me of General George Armstrong Custer…It’s a Celebration, not a ‘Powwow’!”
“I always watch what I say when I’m announcing and sometimes the Elders will come and talk to me and I always honor them. I always honor the veterans. I have Uncles who served, so I always try to honor them. I try to stay humble. The red road is a hard road to walk on. To be an announcer is to speak for the people. My cousin Mike used to tell me “They hired you to be an announcer and they want you to share. They microphone is not there for nothing. Talk and tell stories or talk about yourself so we know who you are.” “It’s hard to be an announcer; once you’re up there behind the mic it’s different. It’s good. You always have to share and you always have to pray. It doesn’t come from your brain it comes from your heart. When I’m announcing and there are differences in the committees and chaos is going on. It reflects back on the people and the elders see it. As announcers we have to try to smooth it all out. We have to work together.”
“My first year I made a lot of mistakes, as years go by I stuck with it. I always try to encourage the people to keep on going. We, as announcers are called to be there and speak for the people and to speak for the committees. We have to speak sometimes for 16 hours. At the same time we get to have fun. We get to joke and make the people happy. It’s good to see the Elders laughing. When you’re announcing and watching the people. Some are nodding their heads to the beat and people are happy. It’s the best seat at the celebration. I like to be at the small celebrations. I like all of our committees. Our committees work hard. Jim Clairmont complimented our people. We don’t use casino funds. We do it the old way. We get out into the communities and get the people involved and raise our money the old way for the people. If you ever want to come up and visit me, you are welcome. Come and sit with me and tell me what’s on your mind.”
“In my heart I go through a lot, whether it is life or my health. It’s the people that hold us together. For me to announce it’s what I enjoy. I enjoy being the voice for the people, whoever needs me. I’ll always be here to announce until I can’t do it anymore. We have a lot of drum groups. The drums are always here to help me. We have some of the best top dancers here on our reservation. I always try to enjoy the celebrations. My favorite is when there are new little ones coming into the circle. The tiny tots love to hear encouragement, I tell them they are all Champion dancers and they really spin hard then. These younger generations are our future. We need to keep them on the right path, show them how to walk the red road.”
“Looking back on past announcers I remember Matt and Jim Black Dog Family. Jim Black Dog would do all his announcing in Dakota all decked out in his white hat. Elders, remember long time ago the announcer used to be out in the middle? There was no sound system and they would keep the people informed. Long time ago there was never a Grand Entry. It mostly came from rodeo and we never had giveaways, if there were gifts to be given they just went out and gave them to them. But it’s good the way they do it now. It’s good to recognize all the dancers and all the categories. It’s good to honor our people. Not to be proud but to honor.”
Frank officiates a lot of wakes, funerals, and memorials here on the reservation, he also sings and plays guitar. “In 1974 we started to sing at wakes. Try to comfort the family and be there for the people; we always mourn with them. We may not know them personally but to see the families cry heartbroken, I try to encourage them and try to sing songs. But it’s what I’ve been called to do. Speak for the people, to be there for the people. Memorials are an important time to remember that loved one. We might have a feed or a giveaway a year later and that’s good. In Canada we do it 4 years then we let them go.”
“I want to thank all the people that I have come across in my lifetime. All the Celebration Organizations. Each one of them for respecting me enough to ask if I’m going to talk for them, I’m always honored to help them. I’m proud of Turns Around and Wahcinca Dakota Oyate Wacipi, they are mostly all women and they are always good celebrations. Thank you to all the committees across the reservation. All of the Fort Peck rez people and I know some are gone but thank you for honoring me. All the drum groups on the reservation and the visiting drums. These are all my boys, all my nephews. I’m really thankful to all of those who have honored me in my life. Thank you to all the committees and all of the people. I’m looking forward to the next celebration “You know, I’ll be there!”
Thank you so much for your time Ahin zaza, Walks in the Light, it has been an honor. You are this week’s “Eya paha in the Spotlight.”
Rest in Paradise Deksi! Thank you for always being there for all of us! Esther, I am so sorry. You are all in our prayers!
Love from myself, my husband, and my children
Swadeau & Terry Halsey says
Esther and family, we are so sorry to hear our friend Frank has journeyed Home. He will be missed by many. Frank used his God given talents to offer comfort to many. His beautiful singing inspired us and especially Terry to help out with music during gatherings. God bless you all during this sad time and we will be praying. ?+
Swadeau & Terry Halsey
Jeanette Black Cloud says
Oh I feel so bad Frank was an awesome man we had time to spend with him during our mothers wake we had visits we will miss him greatly. But memories go on so do the songs he sang ..prayers for his family. From the George fool bear family
A family friend says
My condolences to Margaret Hapa & family. He will be greatly missed.
John & Rose Morsette says
Prayers for franks family,he has done so much for all of us,at one time or another,and we are grateful for that,Esther you were the good wife,you stood behind him as all the ppl asked him for help,love you both and continued prayers for all his family,
Laura Mae smith says
Ester, our condolences to you and his children and the hapa family, coming from the ” brown & Jackson & smith families” he touched all our hearts here on the “spirit lake tribe” he will be greatly missed and never forgotten, by us, we will keep is memories alive and his music, ohan…
Clyde Smith and family says
Sincere condolences to the family.
Thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Pamela Rainbow and family says
Ester & family-my sincere condolences on your loss. Losiing your life’s partner is a hard rode to travel. He will be missed by all. Love and prayers to you and your family.
Tyrus and Fern Follet says
Heaven gained a legendary man, known by many! He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of doing services with him! His songs and music will live on and continue to touch lives! RIP Brother Frank! Prayers go out to Esther and Family!!
Patt Iron Cloud says
It is such a sad day for your beautiful wife and children my beloved Brother Frank. You have brought so much sunshine into all of our lives. I know that your Momma and Daddy missed you too and wanted you to come home so they could see you once again. God bless your wonderful journey into the Heavens. Your feet will touch real gold and Angels will lovingly and gently bring you to Tunkashinas Wakans Tipi. I love you brother and please give Sister A big hug fo r me. We are all sad but the Tiwahe on the other side are rejoicing for your valiant return.
Dreamis Eagle Boy says
Ester & Family,So Sorry for your loss. Our Prayers of healing and Strength for you and family. God Bless you all.
Rosella Sky Arrow says
My sincere condolences and prayers for Frank’s family and friends. Frank was a lot of fun. He was always joking and he would make me laugh of the many things he would say. He was a great announcer at many events. He most certainly will be missed dearly. God bless Ester and his children.
Ardey Boxer says
Sending my prayers and sympathy to the family, his children, and grandchildren……Frank has always been very helpful to our family and for this I will always be grateful. He always knew exactly what to say and knew our family’s history well. I appreciated his thoughtfulness that he shared in song and prayers during our difficult times. He was one of my co-workers at Headstart many years ago and has since been a close friend all of these years. He will be greatly missed at the powwows, funerals, and other activities that our families asked him for help with. Rest in peace, my friend! you are singing with our Creator’s angels now…..
Joel & Marcella Grey Bull says
Our heartfelt condolences to Ester n family,
Frank was the best and he will be missed dearly by all. Being there for my family when we couldn’t find anyone to help us…..his songs n words always touched our hearts! His sense of humor was always uplifting to us all. Thank you for the prayers when my husband was getting flown out. So many things he was there for us…May he sing strong from the spirit world for he has certainly earned his wings….
Anita Trice says
My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends. May the Creator comfort you all during this sad time. Frank will truly be missed by many as he was always there for so many people of our reservation. I will miss his singing and his kind nature.
Kenny and Karen longie and family says
Ester and family our prayers and condolences are with yous…we will never forget Frank his great songs….he’s in heaven now no more pain…flying high….well always remember him as a very kind man who loved to sing and spread gods word…
Patricia Bird says
Condolences.
Bob & Terry McAnally says
Our deepest condolences to Frank’s family. I always learned something good from Frank whenever and wherever I saw him. As usual, Frank and I had a good laugh last Friday at Wadopana Celebration. To me Frank was Eyapaha Dina Was’te. I will miss him. Aho.
Curley Youpee says
Thank you Canada for Frank Hapa.
A humble man; Frank Hapa was and is, one of the most inspiring, compassionate traditional leaders of our time.
Frank’s presence in Indian Country has always signified a symbol of mutual trust, respect, liking and traditional brotherhood. In a wider sense, the word “humble” brings out much more. It encapsulates the foundation of the very qualities that sets him apart from other men.
Reflecting the Fort Peck Journal’s posting of Frank’s interview illustrates his sincere and consistent ability and skill in relating as equals to fellow beings from all walks of life – children, men and women: he explained that we must treat, and regard, all as equal and equally deserving of respect, decency and dignity. He embodied the epitome of respect for his fellow Dakota, and the ability to relate easily to every strata of society. The interview is invaluable.
During the time he was married to my relative, he made certain I was familiar with the good things that all my relations were currently involved. It was good to have Frank close because he knew almost everybody. It was also heartwarming to see Frank at the command with the microphone directing the traffic in emotional funeral and wake proceedings. He had a calming effect on gatherings because they knew he stood for fairness and honesty.
Whoever and wherever we are, let’s uphold his values for our children. He gave hope to the Reservation. He was all about being Dakota. Tunkasila, Wopila Tanka for the gift of Frank Hapa.
Life brings tears, smiles, and memories. The tears dry, the smile fades, but the memories live on forever. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family as they struggle through the grief and sadness. They are in our thoughts and prayers. Fare well Kola Frank, Doksa, ake waunkte.
Pr. Christine Holler-Dinsmore says
Deepest condolences to the family of Frank Hapa. It was a pleasure to have his beautiful voice and heart at memorials and funerals. He will be missed.
May your grief be eased by the love and prayers of friends and family.
Peace to you
Pr. Chris Holler-Dinsmore
Blossom Longee says
Esther and Family,
Iwad so saddened to hear of Frank’s passing he was a wonderful and kind man always willing to help when he could. He will b missed by sooooo many. My prayers and condolences to the family. Rip Frank, my you fly high with the Angels ???
Gerald "Bootsie " Jackson says
Esther and Family my prayers go out to you. Frank was a good man and always was there to support the people as he had learned thru upbringing. He will be missed.
Gerald and Shirley Jackson says
Esther and family our deepest condolences on the loss of Frank. Frank will be missed by everyone here as he was there for everyone.
Laura Eagle Boy says
I was very saddened to hear of Frank’s passing.
My deepest condolences to Esther and family.
I am blessed to have known this man for most of my life through church, school, and wacipi. I appreciate him for always being there to help the People when called upon.
You will be greatly missed my friend.
Pastor Steve Smith says
Must have did a hundred funerals together. We would look forward to seeing each other. Won’t be the same but different now. Happy Trails uncle. We had a lot of fun! Prayers and blessing auntie and to to all the family.
Pastor Steve Smith says
I use to call him the Indian Roy Orbison
Jen Longie says
????Rest in Peace Frank-Your songs will be playing not only in my heart but everyone that got to hear your strong and powerful voice!!!!-My prayers are with you and your family-May you have a Great Journey home!!! I’ll see you again one day!!! Thanks for Everything!!!- Jen (Standing Strong Woman)?????
Anita (Running Bear) Schwab says
My heart felt condolences to my Cousin Frank’s family. I talked on the phone with my cousin when he got out of the hospital, I didn’t know that was the last time I would hear his voice. My cousin was a wonderful humble man who helped when he was needed, he will be greatly missed in Indian Country. Till we meet again my cousin, makoce was’te heci ya, toksta!!
Elena Wilson says
The children of Baine Wilson send our condolences. Frank was a great friend of our dads.
Nina Fox says
I am so sorry to hear the passing of a good friend. Frank was always so good to me, I live on the Fort Berthold Reservation an when we went to celebrations on the Fort Peck Reservation it was always good to hear his good positive words. He made visitors feel very welcomed. He was a very kind spiritual person, he sure helped me when my daughter lost her dad, I remember hearing him sing at a wake in Poplar, an I sure enjoyed his singing. So I asked him to come and sing when my daughter lost her dad. He came and he made me very proud to know him, he had such a good voice and he brought a lot of comfort to the family. Heaven gained one wonderful angel when Frank was called home. He will be missed dearly by all of us who were fortunate to know him.