On Wednesday, May 10, 2017 the Lord took our beloved brother, uncle, and grandpa, Lonnie Richard Iron Bear “Wiyaka Duta”, after a long illness.
Lonnie was born on October 8, 1956 to the late Harry and Mary Iron Bear. Lonnie started working at a young age. He worked for the Headstart, A&S Tribal Industries, Poplar Hospital, and as the Senior Citizen Activity Coordinator for a number of years, which he loved. He was always cooking, doing projects, or collecting items for his seniors. Lonnie also worked for the Ft. Peck Tribes ASRWSS for 18 years up until his death.
Lonnie fasted at Bear Butte, sundanced at Chelsea, and was a traditional dancer. Lonnie was very into his traditional Indian ways.
He enjoyed going to powwows, listening to powwow music, going to family events, sitting and visiting, laughing and having a good time. Lonnie always was a snazzy dresser; he always had his western shirt, wranglers, cowboy boots and either his black leather vest or coat on. He could really get down and dance to western, two step, or oldies; Lonnie loved to dance.
Lonnie is survived by his sisters, Linda (Dave) Lezard, Beth (Jake) Whitebull, Myra (Jon) Daniels, Cheryl (Butch) Boyd, Charmaine (Butchie) Iron Bear, and Gloria Buckles; sister-in-law, Marzetta Iron Bear; adopted sister, Pauline Boxer; brothers, James (Son) Iron Bear, Anthony (Patrice) Iron Bear, and Ivan Roberts; adopted brother, Tom Escarcega; uncles, Arnold Eagle Boy and Jr. Grey Bull. He is also survived by the Eagle Boy, Red Eagle, Longfox, Merculieff, Jones and Gray Hawk family.