On Wednesday, May 10, 2017 the Lord took our beloved brother, uncle, and grandpa, Lonnie Richard Iron Bear “Wiyaka Duta”, after a long illness.
Lonnie was born on October 8, 1956 to the late Harry and Mary Iron Bear. Lonnie started working at a young age. He worked for the Headstart, A&S Tribal Industries, Poplar Hospital, and as the Senior Citizen Activity Coordinator for a number of years, which he loved. He was always cooking, doing projects, or collecting items for his seniors. Lonnie also worked for the Ft. Peck Tribes ASRWSS for 18 years up until his death.
Lonnie fasted at Bear Butte, sundanced at Chelsea, and was a traditional dancer. Lonnie was very into his traditional Indian ways.
He enjoyed going to powwows, listening to powwow music, going to family events, sitting and visiting, laughing and having a good time. Lonnie always was a snazzy dresser; he always had his western shirt, wranglers, cowboy boots and either his black leather vest or coat on. He could really get down and dance to western, two step, or oldies; Lonnie loved to dance.
Lonnie is survived by his sisters, Linda (Dave) Lezard, Beth (Jake) Whitebull, Myra (Jon) Daniels, Cheryl (Butch) Boyd, Charmaine (Butchie) Iron Bear, and Gloria Buckles; sister-in-law, Marzetta Iron Bear; adopted sister, Pauline Boxer; brothers, James (Son) Iron Bear, Anthony (Patrice) Iron Bear, and Ivan Roberts; adopted brother, Tom Escarcega; uncles, Arnold Eagle Boy and Jr. Grey Bull. He is also survived by the Eagle Boy, Red Eagle, Longfox, Merculieff, Jones and Gray Hawk family.
Kathleen says
My sincerest condolences to the family of Lonnie. Lonnie has always been one of my friends. Rest in perfect peace my friend until we all meet again.
robert says
It was good to get to know Lonnie again after 50 years. My short journey with him was a memorable one,I am happy we had the chance to kind of catch up on life. May god bless and comfort Lonnie’s family. Take care, Rocky DesJarlais.
Terry Lindsay-Barron says
I will truely miss my buddy since A & S days, and my favorite dancing partner. My sincerest codolences to the family. RIP Lonnie
Helen Bighorn says
To Lonnie’s family and friends: May Lonnie be granted eternal rest and peace. Now, you can dance again!
Patt Iron Cloud says
Dearest Tiwahe. I am praying for each of the family members. I am still crying for this wonderful man. I just can’t believe it. You know that Lonnie is showing us a good road to follow him. I just can’t believe he’s gone from Mother Earth. I Will miss his terrific hug and his whispering in my ears. Always good things. He was always good to me. How thankful I am for his good life. He is traveling now to visit all of us on Mother Earth. I pray for his beautiful journey into the lands of our Ancestors. Auntie Mary is happy and we are sad. Tunkashina will bless their great reunion. It will all work out in the end. I know it. Jesus lives and because he lives, we will all see dearest Lonnie once again after his pure resurrection and ours. It won’t be long before the graves will open and release all our relatives. I love you all. Hugs and prayers .
Sharon says
Condolences to the Iron Bear families. Im gonna miss you my brother. I’m cherish all the laughter n things we’ve done in the past. Thank you for being part of my life. I love you,brother.
Richard White Owl III says
I love you uncle!
Teresa Johnny says
My late husband Doug Johnny and I met Lonnie at Chelsea Montana. He opened up his home and cooked for our family and made a birthday cake for son Patrick Grey as his birthday is June 20th was thankful for Lonnie. Prayers for his family Teresa Johnny
Pauline says
Condolences to the Ironbear Family, Relations, Friends, Community, from BC. Pauline Terbasket
Rose Morsette says
Gona miss you cousin Lonnie, always saying something crazy, had many good times together, bet your happy now, with your mom & family over on the other side,
YellowOwl/family says
R.I.P. LONNIE. You were nice, considerate, loving, VERY caring, FUNNY, and you will be missed dearly!
Lynett Yellow Owl says
My condolences to Lonnie’s family.
Laura Eagle Boy says
I love you Uncle.
Growing Thunder Tiwahe says
Our condolences! You were always good to my siblings and I while we grew up. We will always remember your generosity and looking after us wherever you seen us. Thank You for remembering us during the holidays with lots of goodies! Fly high and journey well Dekši Wiyaka Duta!
Ramey Growing Thunder & Family
Wayne & Evetta Two Bulls says
Sending our sincere condolences to the Iron Bear family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad and difficult time.
Louella Douglas-Contreras says
my relative Lonnie–I remember a lot time ago you came to the hospital & sat with my mother when she was getting ready to make her journey-I always remembered that- pidamiya. I pray for your journey-rest well cousin. My condolences to the family.
Florence Garcia says
Prayers and sympathy to Lonnie’s family. He was a kind and generous soul and will be missed.
Rosella Sky Arrow says
My sincere condolences to the Iron Bear family. Lonnie was a good friend when I was younger. He was fun to hang with and chum around with. He was a great dance partner. He will truly be missed. I’m glad to have crossed paths with him again in my older age at sweat lodge. It was always good to see him every week. Rest in Peace Lonnie.
Xavier Sherman says
Not many of you may know me but I remember my grandpa Lonnie when I went trick or treating I cried when he pasted away even at the funeral if Lonnie sees what I said I’ll miss him. He’s always in my heart
R.I.P Grandpa Lonnie, you’ll be missed
Gay & Brian Pennington says
So sorry to see that Lonnie past away. I don’t get the paper right away so when I finally get it , its too late too come home. You have my deepest Sympathy and Lonnie will be miss. I enjoy knowing him and the family of the Iron Bear. God Bless you all. From Gay (Stephanie) Pennington