Melvin Grey Owl
March 18, 1932 ~ September 4, 2023
Melvin Grey Owl, 91, of Chamberlain and formerly of Stephan, passed away Monday, September 4, 2023, at Sanford Chamberlain Care Center.
Per Melvin's request, no services will be held.
Melvin Bernard Grey Owl, Wicasa Wogadaka Psa, (They Talk About Him), was born March 18, 1932, in Fort Thompson, SD to John Pius and Sophia (Touch the Earth) Grey Owl. He was one of 11 children and was the last of them to leave this earth.
Melvin lived most of his life on the Crow Creek Sioux Reservation, but he was always a traveler at heart. He visited many American Indian homelands and numerous states in his years of adventure.
In his marriage to Mary Ann Hieb, he brought two children into the world, Sophia Rose born February 21, 1975, and John Pius on October 26, 1976.
He married his wife, Victoria, of 19 years on July 24, 2004.
Melvin was a man of service, after over 40 years of sobriety, he reached out to others on the reservation and with his kindness and gratitude, and shared his story with them. His spiritual and cultural message found its way into many hearts over the years.
He found himself skilled in many areas, such as an alcohol counselor for his tribe and others, representative elder for Sioux Nation Treaty Council, est. 1894, and he even traveled to Geneva, Switzerland to speak to the United Nation Indigenous Committee a few times. Since he was on the road quite often, he could be found helping hitchhikers get to their destinations, helping them with their broken-down vehicle, getting groceries, gas, or trying to see family. Melvin would never pass up an opportunity to help someone in need.
Melvin will be remembered for his remarkable storytelling about all his years and all the exciting tales that came with them.
He leaves behind his wife of 19 years, Victoria (Wade) Grey Owl; son, John Pius Grey Owl; and many relatives and friends.
Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Sophia Rose; and 10 siblings.
Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Melvin's arrangements.
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Prayers for the family,
Shavon Campbell
Billie Kelley
Mel was an incredible human being and I will remember him forever. He was full of stories and laughter and I learned so much from him. He had been a rodeo rider too! He was so proud his Dad had donated money for the school there at Crow Creek. So handsome and full of life…Good journey Mel, see you on the other side. Mitaque Oasin ✨🪶🪶🪶🪶✨
So sorry to read Melvin the last of John an Sophie’s family has went to his heavenly home. My grandfather was frank Heenan/Stephan met many friends/memories! our sympathy and prayers
I got to meet MGO when he and my long time friend Vicki were in Ohio. I know he will be greatly missed.