Sean Adam Bighorn, Dakota name “Sutaya Was’te” (Firmly Good), Nakoda name “Takes the Horse” Tasunka Kin Icu. Our beloved son, grandson, brother, uncle and cousin, passed away due to natural causes at his home in Wolf Point, MT on Saturday, June 4, 2022. Sean was 34 years old, and was born on September 14, 1987 to Roxann and Spike Bighorn.
Sean spent his formative years living in Brockton, MT and attended Barbara Gilligan Elementary School and Brockton High School until his senior year. He then transferred to Poplar High School, where he graduated in 2007. Although Sean suffered from a genetic heart condition, it didn’t stop him from living a normal childhood – “hanging out” with his friends and cousins and tagging along with his older brother Quinn to all of his sporting events and activities. Sean was everyone’s “little brother” and was given the nickname “Smoke Dogg” due to a childhood incident while driving around town on a go-kart whose engine was on fire, leaving a cloud of smoke in its wake – completely unbeknownst to the driver!
Along with his love and fierce loyalty to his family, Sean had other interesting “hobbies” – basketball and powwows, darts and pool league. He was a renowned powwow singer and traveled the region attending every powwow he possible could during the summers. His primary singing group was Soldier Hill, and he made lifelong friends through his singing and traveling with this group.
Although his heart condition made it difficult for him to participate in basketball like he wanted, he took great joy in the few times he did take the court. He loved to regal his friends with stories (some of them “tall tales”) of when he was on the court “poppin’ 3s” and “breakin’ ankles” just like his brother did! He lived his basketball dreams vicariously through the play of his brother Quinn, cousins Jay and Chelbi Brugh and, most recently, his treasured nephews Jarron and Patton Bighorn.
Sean will be remembered for his infectious personality – laughing, telling jokes and stories and just being the general “life of the party”. He quite possibly was the friendliest person anyone came into contact with, making friends wherever he went, and he had a great loyalty to his friends and relatives. He loved the Oakland Raiders and Gonzaga Bulldogs, always dissecting their every win and loss! At the time of his death, Sean was employed as a Desk Clerk at the Homestead Inn in Wolf Point.
Sean is survived by his mom, Roxann Smith (Robert); his dad, Spike Bighorn (Stephanie); sisters Raven & Willow Bighorn; sister in law Alberta Wright (Wes) step brothers Raymond, Jordan (Ashlen), paternal grandfather Alpheus Bighorn, Jr; maternal grandmother Gloria Chopper, Grandpa Ray Smith, Grandparents Dwight and Virginia Birdwell, Grandma Julie Bemer (Merle), Carol Bemer, Louise Ell, “Momma Ernestine Youpee, Momma Marty Dillon, Aunties Carolyn Brugh (Jay, Sr.); Carolyn Adams (Harold); Nicole Chopper (Maurice Bighorn, Jr.); Brenda Eder (George); special uncle Paul Bemer, Teddy Ricker; Patrick Anderson, numerous cousins and two nephews who had a special pace in his heart – Jarron & Patton Bighorn
Sean was preceded in death by his older brother Quinn; paternal great-grandparents Norman & Vera Hollow; Josephine and Alpheus Bighorn, Sr.; maternal great-grandparents Neville & Freda Bemer; paternal grandmothers Doremis Bighorn; Sharon Vierra, maternal grandfather Aloysius Burshia, Jr., Unci: Pearl Hopkins, Lorraine Snell; aunties Hope Montoya, Lavonne Burshia; Elouise Burshia, Alene Sharp, Karen Buckles; uncles Raymond Burshia, Shawn Harger, Curtis Buckles. Papa Chuck & Grandma Bernice Spotted Bird, Grandpa Leland Spotted Bird.
Sean will be missed by all his fellow eyapaha emcee’s, Soldier Hill brothers, powwow committees, dart & pool league friends, pow wow singers, fellow tribal politician candidates, countless cousins, adopted relatives and special friends. We know Sean had many adopted relatives and we apologize for leaving anyone out.
Until we see you again son, know we will always love and miss you.
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
Service Schedule
Prayer Service
6:00 p.m.
Friday June 10, 2022
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel
102 Custer Street
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday June 11, 2022
Badlands Powwow Grounds
Brockton, Montana 59213
Service Schedule
Prayer Service
6:00 p.m.
Friday June 10, 2022
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel
102 Custer Street
Wolf Point, Montana 59201
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday June 11, 2022
Badlands Powwow Grounds
Brockton, Montana 59213
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Christine Holler-Dinsmore says
Deepest Condolences and many prayers for all the family and friends. May you be comforted by the sure knowledge that Sean is in the arms of the loving Creator and those who have passed over to the other side, especially Quinn.
Chelbi Bighorn Brugh says
I Love You Brother You Took A Piece Of Me With You We Definitely Had Some Everlasting Memories That I Will Hold Dear To My Heart Until We Meet Again My Brother 💙
Shari says
My sincere condolences to your families Sean. Thanks for all the crazy memories.
Adrian Imus says
Sean was my best friend / Brother he sang in our powwow drum Group. Soldier Hill out of Wolf point along with (Me) Adrian Imus and Eric Martell. We start the the drum group after our old group Youngheart singers retired back in 2007. I met Sean through his older brother Quin B. I got to know Sean on a personal level. Traveling to powwows with him for over 13 years. We enjoyed talking and making fun of one another. He was the reason why Soldier Hill Akicita Paha Odowan got the name for our Drum Group considering that our former group name was because alot of the singers dismembered and moved on with their lives. He was a lead singer composing alot of our powwow songs. Sean Eric and I were the founders of our drum
group. Singers such as Darnell Martell Danial Schaur Anthony Achdale Jimmy-John Chase (Kuye) Nathan Chase Lance Chase (Coke) Richard Chase Elmer Flying Horse Sr. Alex White Tail Feather Kipp Stiff Arm Bryson Meyers Ryan Berson and Franklin Dumont who were all former members of Soldier Hill learned and was taught alot of Sean’s great songs. Sean will be remembered at a legend in the powwow community as well as an announcer of alot of events that took place here on the Fort Peck Rez. Sean was their when I needed to talk. He’s was my brother my Kona. He gave me the nick name Mr.Saturday Night cause I only danced at powwows on Saturday night. Sean will be greatly missed by many but I will always remember him for his big heart his charisma his strength as an avid speaker for tribal rights and politics and how he had a voice for what he knew in his (canté) heart what was to be said . Breaks my heart hes far away. But now he can be with the Wakan Tanka an his older brother QB watching over us. I’ll see you soon brother love you and always remember you in not just a “Good way” But in an “Awesome Way”!!! Hoka Kona Sean B in the place to be !
Florence Garcia says
Condolences to Sean’s family. He was a gift to everyone who knew him. Prayers for comfort and peace during your grief.
Verdis Grey Bull says
I am so sorry to hear of nephew Sean’s passing. my deepest condolences to Spike & family, Roxanne and family.
Blossom Longee says
Dear Nephew I was so heartbroken when I got the call you had passed away I’m still in disbelief. You were one of kind and I know you will be missed by many. Please give Mom, Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie Doremis and Quinn hugs for me. I’m sure gonna miss you. Now you can be with your brother Quinn and the rest of the family. R.I.P Nephew and sing and rejoice with everyone. My sincere condolescence to Spike and Roxy. May God be with you two at this time and bless you two. 🙏💔😭
Carrie Manning says
Condolences to the family, keeping you all in my prayers
Sean was such a blessing and will be missed
God Bless
Carrie, Rob Manning
Dustin Kuipers says
Thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family. Sean was always a joy to be around and had a positive and vibrant personality. I remember his contagious laughter and big smile. He will be missed by many.
Jenell Bear says
When I think of Sean, I remember a young, fun loving, jokester. He was just a kid when I worked in Brockton, but he always had a kind word that made you smile. He was also a source of comfort when we lost my brother, Jory. May the Lord be with you all during this difficult time. I have been praying for you. Hugs.
Stephanie Marchand says
Sean I’m so sorry to hear about your passing. Rest in peace my friend. Until we meet again
Gay Pennington says
My deepest condolences to the family….no one can feel his shoes…he’s one in a million 🙏…heart of gold💐💛💛. . A guy with a big smile 😀😃on his face always..with lots of laugher, jokes, teasing and just a great guy!!!RIP my friend 😀 May God Be With You All!!
Anita Scheetz says
Always a smile and a hug. He was a blessing to all of us. Loads of hugs and prayers for his family.
Doug & Tammie McCormick says
So very sorry to hear of Sean’s passing! Spike & family, Roxanne & family, you are all in our thoughts & prayers!!
Lori Canyon says
My condolences 💐 to the family, may he rest in heaven 🥀💔✝️🖤💐🫶🏽❤️ Another Angel 😇…
Susie Anderson Clark says
When I think of Sean I remember him with a smile on his face that was a mile wide, he always greeted everyone with a smile. I remember my dad(Jim Anderson) teasing him about transferring to Froid so Sean could be in the band because every time Brockton would play in Froid you could find sitting in the band section listening to the band play. I will treasure the times I got to hold him when he was a baby, Rest in Peace Sean. Love and prayers to Roxy and Robert and Spike and Stephanie and girls.God Bless,
Brian Azure, Sr. says
I’m so sorry to hear about Sean’s passing. He was a good friend to my son Ben. Always kind, always smiling. Roxann,, Spike and family, you are in my prayers. Sean will be missed.
Nancy Sietsema says
Sean, what can I say about Sean? He was one of the most loving young man that I had the joy to become friends with. He always had a smile on his face and was always singing. He always told me how much he wanted to date my co-worker Rosina(he absolutely loved her). If you were feeling down, Sean made sure that you would be smiling and laughing with him in a short time. I feel honored to call him my friend and I know he will be watching over his family & friends and singing in heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with Roxanne & Robert, Spike & Stephanie and Sean’s entire family. Fly High Young Man 🕊
Calinda Duquette says
Sean was always so respectful to me, everytime I saw him always had a hug for “grandma”. I was saddened to hear of Roxy and Spike’s loss. We know he will help from where he sits, and I know heaven is rejoicing 💔💞
Leigh SB says
Smoke Dogg. We’ll all miss you cousin. Love you.
#FunkyTown
Donald Boyd says
R.I.P. My Friend Sean Big Horn And Deepest Condolences To Your Family And Prayers To Your Family In The Days Ahead Pow-wows Won’t Be The Same Without You And Always Made People Smile And Laugh..
Naomi Bishop says
I have many memories of Sean telling stories and making me laugh. He always told me funny memories of Grandpa Wilfred and cheered for the Phx Sun’s and AZ Wildcats. He was a big sports fan even when our teams would loose. He always cheered me up. I know he is smiling down on us as we remember and celebrate his life.
Auntie Patt Iron Cloud says
Dear Nephew Sean. We will see your handsome face once again. Your beautiful Grandma Doremis will take real good care of you in the Spirit World. Hugs to your beautiful Mommy Roxann and Tiwahe and Daddy Spike and Tiwahe . God bless your darling Grandpa Alpheus Jr., I can’t even imagine their grief! You took a shining light out of this world when you left dear Sean.💔💔💔. It is too much for me to comprehend. Jesus Christ is my only hope during this terrible time. God bless Chelbi and family and Jay and family. and their darling Momma Carolyn and Daddy Jay. God bless your beautiful Baby Sisters. QB will be with you and show you the ropes in Heaven. I know it! May Gid bless our beloved Jarron and Patton. God bless Alberta W. And Tiwahe. Please give my beautiful Sister Pearl H.a kiss for me, I miss her so. God bless my dear Sister Gloria. I know she’s still in shock. She loves you so much, with all of her heart. We are all in so much shock still.💔😭💔. God bless Tommy And Sarelle And Tiwahe. God bless Chris and Lupe. God the Hamilton Bros and your Brother Dion H. And family. God bless all of my children who love you so. You left a huge crater in all of our hearts. One day, God will right every wrong. Hugs dear Toshkan Sean. Tears are flowing as I write this. 😭😭💔💔❤️❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼 God bless Rose M, and family. God bless Tony B. and Arden B., I know their hearts are broken too. Your beautiful Grandma Vera and Grandpa Norman will certainly welcome you into Heavens Gates with open arms. So many people love you. Hugs from Auntie Patt Iron Cloud. 🎶🎶🎶. Keep singing your beautiful songs. ❤️❤️❤️💔💔😭😭🦅🦅. Doksha ake waciya kink’te Toshkan. Lililililililililili!!!
Joel n Marcella GB says
To Roxann n family, Spyker n family..we are so shocked and sorry to hear of your beloved son Sean’s passing 😢 may the Creator bless n comfort you all with broken hearts 💕 Sean will be missed dearly but know he is at peace as well..cherish his precious memories 🙏💗fly high to the spirit world Sean..Rest in Paradise..
Tina L Magnan says
Sean touched so many lives here on earth. But our Heavenly father decided it was his time.
He has his wings and is flying high with all of the rest of family and friends. They were all there
with open arms. Such a great loss. But left such a legacy. He will not be forgotten ever.
Prayers to Roxie, Spike, all family and extended family. You are all in my prayers. But just look and one of his videos and you cannot help but laugh.
DeRae Wounded Face says
We gave it a hell of a run when you ran for council.! Forever am I grateful to have spent time with you.! In my heart you will always be Sargent at arms.! Rip Sean.! Thank you for the memories.! My prayers are with your family.!
Antoinette Melbourne says
Grew up with all my cousins, Sean being one of them. Memories filled with laughter, talking sports and movies. Endless movies quotes.. whether it was basketball tournaments, our famous Bighorn birthday parties or school functions, Sean was always there with a smile.
Through the years when we ran into each other we talked about our parents, and families, and always talked about Gonzaga and the awesome years they had when Adam Morrison played. Sean’s spot on memory of sports stats, movie quotes and deep love for family will be missed. From childhood to adulthood he made a lasting impression on anyone he met. Forever and always Sean.
Pauline Azure-Feuvray says
My brother Craig Azure is in St. Vincent Hospital in Billings, Mt and feels upset that Sean and his other friends are passing to the other side. May his friends and relatives be comforted in this time of grief. God be with you all.
Shawn Hove says
What an awesome guy! I soooo loved his personality, as did everyone who got to cross paths with him! His memory of past games (especially Quinn’s) was unreal!! He’d know the exact score, how many pts certain players had, and exactly how the game played out! I’m gonna be pullin for the Raiders just for you RIP Baby Bro
Frank DeMarrias says
Sean it has been good knowing you I liked how you greeted me all the time Mr. Uncle DeMarrias, then you would do your laugh and it always made me smile. Safe journey my friend, fly high and sing even louder. RIP FOREVER.
Michelle Barsness says
What a beautiful Obituary. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Loren Boadle and family says
I was very sadden to hear about your passing. My prayers and thoughts go out to Spike and Roxanne. It was always a joy to be around Sean since we teased each quit a bit. His laugh was infectious and will greatly missed.
Agnes Moran family says
Sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers from our family to yours. Love you all 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️
Ethelyn Moccasin says
My deepest and sincerest condolences and prayers to Sean’s family..💐🙏😔
McMakin Family says
Sending prayers of comfort to family. May god hold you close in your time of need. Journey well my friend…….McMakin Family
Michelle Trottier says
Prayers and Condolences to Spike, Roxanne and families. May he rest in enternal peace.
Traci LeVay-Holt says
My fondest memory of Sean was when he was a little guy at my Mothers preschool. He was always tickled when his papa Norman would come to pick him up. Im sure they are having the best reunion. My sincere condolences.
Lucy says
My sincere condolences to you all.
Prayers Lucy and Lee Redekopp
Joy race says
You are now free RIP cousin Sean . I didn’t know you like my other family did but I knew you through Fb you always supported me and make me laugh . I hope your having a blast in heaven give Grandma and Grandpa Wellington my love insure so miss them. Until we all merry again enjoy your forever home now . God bless your family they are in my prayers. Lord comfort them all hold them close and never let them go . Amen
Jackie Hippe says
Sean was a friend to many and what a personality he had. God takes the best rather we are ready or not. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of grief.
Iva Zimmerman says
My condolences to the family! My thoughts and prayers are with the family in your time of sorrow. May God Bless you.
Terry/Robert McAnally says
Our hearts are broken for Sean’s family and friends. May the Creator surround you all with wings of love and compassion during this very difficult times.
Melody Nichols says
My heart broke into pieces when I heard the news. I’m sure going to miss our random conversations and FaceTimes of you always making me crack up with your silliness! I’ll never forget the last time I came up to visit and you took me on a drive around town and to meet some of your friends at night & omg we got into troubllleeee (not really that big of trouble) haha! But our fam definitely were calling & yelled for ya to get me back & you were all “Ooooo I think we’re in trouble” Hahaha! Or when we were driving the go cart on the farm & I crashed it into Nanny & Papi fence! Lmboooo!!! Good times! I specifically remember that night though & it came to mind when I was thinking of you the other day. 😞💔 Out of all our cousins you’re probably the one who actually reaches out & kept in touch the most! I love you and will miss you so much! Say hi to Quinn for me. RAIDERRRRSSSSS NATION FOR LIFE 💀✊🏼
Edwin says
My deepest condolences Sean was a great friend I got to meet in my time in wolfpoint and after my accident just about everyday sean would be at the front desk, big homie I called him, and before I could even ask what I originally went for we chatted and laughed and shared wisdom and definitely helped get over this slump during my time here. Ima miss that big homie, rest in paradise .
Carly Clincher says
Gonna miss you Sean B. Won’t be the same around here without a good Sean B laugh and story. Thanks for being a good friend and being there. Give Spliff and Red a hug for me. I will miss you..everyone will.
Mike & Pearl MacDonald-Stump says
Still can’t believe you’re gone. At least you’re with your big bro Q again. Fly high and have a safe journey Cuz. We love you and you will be very deeply missed by all.
To the family: Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to you all. Sean was an awesome person. He never had a bad thing to say about anyone. He always lit the room up where ever he went. Our thoughts and prayers to everyone.
Charity says
Sean was a good friend of mine he was a really nice guy
Curtis Courchen says
Thank you for singing at Shane’s 25 year Retirement Party from the Army 💎💎💎 Shane, Jourdon and Cadillac Courchene
Karla Ricker says
Cousin Roxanne 🙏🏼💔 our hearts are heavy now but I know he’s waiting for you with Quinn❤️🙌🤗 You traveled well Nephew Sean ☀️ Until we meet again ☀️🙏🏼❤️
dwight w birdwell says
A FINE YOUNG MAN, HUMBLE AND OUT-GOING, COURTEOUS AND POLITE, WE MISS YOU!!!
Shirley Marchwick says
Sean was one of a kind. He was the example of how people should act—full of love, kindness and joy. His smile would light up a room. I always loved how he would call me Auntie. As soon as he saw me he would say Family. He did this at the tournament this year with his mom. He had the whole gym laughing. He definitely had his mother’s sense of humor. I will miss him forever. Love and prayers sent.
Ernestine Ireland says
Rest in peace Grandson, I can only imagine that great reunion in heaven with
Jesus, your brother Quinn, and Grandmother Doremis, and all your family that are there to greet and welcome you home, My condolences to my Nephew Spike and family and my Cousin Roxanne and family.
Debra mason says
Condolences to the family what a very nice person sean was he will be greatly missed
Richard White Owl III says
Fly High Koda, My Deepest Condolences To The Family 😥.
Rosella Sky Arrow says
I love you Son, RIP. I will always miss you. I was so proud to be your second Mom.
Joel Stuber says
I am so saddened by the loss of Sean. He was one of a kind. Loved having Sean in class, especially PE. He came so alive playing with us all, even when he needed to wear a helmet for protection and hated to wear it. There wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t make me laugh and lift my spirits. I could always count on him finishing his Health work so he could shoot some hoops while others needed to finish their work. He idolized Quinn and his friends and bragged them up good, especially at tournament time! Watching him sit off to the side cheering and interacting with the other officials while Spike refereed a game was so fun for me. I know he is leaving a big hole in your hearts now, but you will hear him singing, laughing, and story telling. Love you and rest in peace, Sean. Love and prayers to the family.
Stephanie Cayer says
Sending my deepest condolences to the family with the loss of Sean. Hold those sweet memories close to your heart during this time of mourning. Celebrate his life with a smile and a sense of joy.