Matthew Bear Eagle, Sr.

October 10, 1939 ~ June 3, 2010

Served by: Luce, Luze & Reck Funeral Homes

Matthew Ambrose Bear Eagle, Sr. age 70, of On The Tree, journeyed to the spirit world, Thursday, June 3, 2010 at his daughter’s home in Eagle Butte.

Funeral services were held at 10:00a.m. MDT, Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at Matthew’s Home at On The Tree, SD with Rev. Norman Blue Coat and LeRoy Bobtail Bear officiating. Burial followed in Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery at Bridger. An all night wake was held at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at his home.

Matthew A. Bear Eagle, Sr. was born October 10, 1939 to Noah and Lema (Crane Pretty Voice) Bear Eagle at Bridger, SD. He was raised between Bridger and Belle Fourche and was educated at St. Joseph Indian School in Chamberlain.

Matthew worked as a ranch hand for several ranchers between Newell and Faith. Also, he was a mechanic, and spent time teaching this skill to many of his nephews and grandsons. He also enjoyed playing guitar for his family while his children were growing up.

Matt was a supporter of the Sundance and Lakota way of life. Watching the sweat door and participating to keep the young and old going each year for Sundance.

Matt was a kind and compassionate man and was well respected, being dad and grandpa to many. One could always count on him when you needed help or to learn something new.

Those left to mourn his passing include his daughters: Lena (Terry) Flying By and Cylinda Bear Eagle both of Eagle Butte; daughter in law, Rose Mary Bear Eagle of Bismarck, ND; sister, Angeline Taylor of Glad Valley, SD; friend and companion, Darlene LaBlanc; aunt, Zouie Lone Eagle of Bridger SD; siblings: David West, Audrey West, Nancy West, and Renee West; adopted sons: Henery, Albert, and Tony Holy Bear and Jared LaBlanc; along with many grandsons and granddaughters, all being special to him; and his great-grandchildren and many extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by parents, Noah Bear Eagle and Lema Crane Pretty Voice; step mother, Eva Bear Eagle; brothers: Timothy and Bruce; sisters: Pauline and Olivia West; sons: Joe Tiona. Brian Tiona, Matthew A. Bear Eagle, Jr. and Robert Bear Eagle. He will be greatly missed by all family and friends.

Luce Funeral Chapel of Eagle Butte has been entrusted with Matthew’s arrangements.