Taun Bear Stops

Taun J. Bear Stops, 37, of Red Scaffold, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Monument Health, Rapid City. 

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. MDT, Friday June 13, 2025, at the Red Scaffold Gym, Red Scaffold. Burial will follow in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Red Scaffold. A wake will be 7:00 p.m., Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the gym with a procession from the 2-Mile west of Red Scaffold at 4:00 p.m. 

Taun Jaymes Bear Stops, born on June 2, 1987, in Chamberlain, South Dakota, was the beloved son of James and Connie (Hale) Bear Stops. He was raised in the communities of Cherry Creek, Bridger, and later Red Scaffold.

Taun attended Takini School from Pre-K through 12th grade, graduating with the Class of 2005. During his school years, he was a dedicated student who maintained good grades and was an active athlete. He especially loved basketball, playing in numerous games and tournaments, where he earned many awards for his talent and sportsmanship.

After high school, Taun worked alongside his father in a variety of jobs, particularly in ranching. His strong work ethic and friendly nature made him a respected and reliable ranch hand who formed lasting connections with those he worked with.

Taun continued his love of sports beyond school, participating in basketball, softball, and even fast-pitch leagues and tournaments. Outside of athletics and work, he found joy in fishing, listening to music, sharing jokes, and spending quality time with his family and friends.

Taun will be remembered for his warm personality, playful spirit, and the many ways he touched the lives of those around him.

Taun is survived by his father: James Bear Stops; siblings: Teno and Krista Bear Stops; his partner: Dayne Collins; children: Xavier, Willow, Emerly, and Xander Bear Stops; his many brothers and sisters (cousins), and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, grandkids, relatives, and friends.

Greeting him in the spirit world are his mother Connie: sisters; Falon and CherRon: and his grandparents. 

Luce Funeral Home of Gettysburg has been entrusted with Taun’s arrangements.