Ivan Phillip Roberts passed away on October 30, 2024. Ivan grew up on the Fort peck Indian Reservation in Montana, he was proud of his full blood Sioux affiliation to that tribe.
He is a descendant of the Bad Temper Bear Clan, his relatives include his Iron Bear family who he felt a special connection to, the Smokers, Spotted Wolfs, Red Boys, Shields, Johnsons, Deans and Standing Bears.
He grew up in Frazer, MT, and played basketball for the Frazer BearCub High School.
At the age of 20, wanting to see more of the world, he enlisted in the Army, which led to him being sent overseas and into Vietnam War, where he received the National Defense Service, Vietnam Service, Combat Infantryman, Good Conduct, Parachutist, Pathfinder, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Bronze Star awards and medals.
In 1971 he was honorably discharged, moved home and later attended college in Missoula, MT.
Ivan met Kathy Birdsbill in the summer of 1969 and continued a relationship throughout the years and were married March 21, 1987. They had one son, Matthew who Ivan was very close to.
They enjoyed watching basketball games and Ivan’s football team the Denver Broncos play.
Ivan held several jobs, he worked at the Transco Railroad in Miles City and his last job he worked and retired from was the A&S Industries in Poplar, MT.
Ivan is survived by; Matthew, his step sons Jarett and Nolan of Wolf Point, Eli and Tanya of Nebraska and his brother Tony Iron Bear; sisters Linda Dean of Miles City, MT, Neva Spotted Wolf, JoAnna Spotted Wolf, Lucinda Standing Bear, Linda Iron Bear Lezard, Myrna Iron Bear Daniels, and Cheryl Iron Bear Boyd all of Poplar, MT.
Ivan is preceded in death by; his mother Vera Roberts; his father Harry Iron Bear Sr.; brothers Lloyd, Clarence, Gerald, August “Jug”, Austin “Moose”, Merele, Harry Jr., Alfred, Lonnie and Sonny; sisters Beth, BettyJo and Charmaine Iron Bear and Agnes “Babygirl” Spotted Wolf.
Ivan will be truly missed by all that were blessed to have known him and those that will carry him in their hearts.
Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
David and Chong Ae Boyd says
Farewell comrade. Franklin D Chopper Post 61
Grandma Patt says
I will definitely miss you dear Ivan, God bless your journey to see your Mommy. She’s been missing you. Jo Anna and all your family will definitely miss you. You told Jo Anna not to cry until after you are gone. She loves you. God be with your family. Thank you to the dialysis Staff for caring for Ivan in a good way.
Thank you Wohitika Akicita Ivan for serving during time of war in Vietnam Nam,. You served with many of our Native Brothers and Sisters. We are proud of you. Grandma Patt
Robert S Eder & Famil says
Now let’s party with sister and brother in the clouds Ccr forever
David and Chong Ae Boyd says
Only veteran I knew who had a pathfinder badge.
Theresa says
you will always be in my ❤️
you’ll always b with hokshina God loves u both
Tania Masquat says
RIP Dad. Journey well. Love you.
tina says
Prayers to all of his family, extended family and friends. Rest in Peace. Such a reunion in the sky.
Jerri lynn smoker says
Auntie Yvonne Smoker Broaddus offered prayers everyday cousin Ivan was in Vietnam until you came back and stayed with her and uncle Ed. I was in high school and looked up to you. Joined the service because of you and all your brothers .
The Grey Bear Family says
Fly high our relative until we meet again Doka sa aka
Kurt Jenewein says
Didn’t know you sir, but thank you for your service. RIP soldier.