Obituary of BIG CROW – Rodney R.

January 2, 1938 – November 24, 2009 With great sadness and loss, the family of Rodney R. Big Crow (Makoiyoohkpatakii – Wolf Carrier) announces his sudden passing on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at the age of 71 years. Rodney was born on the Tsuu T’ina Nation and lived the life of a hard working Tsuu T’ina cowboy from the very young age of “eleven or twelve.” He was a tough cowboy – farming, ranching, logging, constructing and helping people on their own healing journeys by sharing his story and addictions counselling. Struggling as a young boy through the Great Depression, the Second World War and through his own challenges as a man – Wolf Carrier always found strength in the power of his Tsuu T’ina language, traditions and prayers. He vowed a life of deep spiritual commitment and joined the Blood Tribe Holy Society Iitskinayiiks (Horns) with Yvonne in order to help his family and many other friends and family through personal sacrifice, ceremony and prayer. Rodney was a very kind and sharing man who loved his family and friends, his community… and his horses. Rodney was a humble man of great strength and determination, always giving of himself through prayer, work and generosity of spirit and kindness. Wolf Carrier always encouraged us and spoke often about the importance of language, culture and education, constantly advising us to listen to our Elders and teachers. “In our way of life, the discipline that we learn is a blessing; how we react to that discipline is important. Respect each other.” Rodney leaves behind his wife Yvonne, his daughter Marilyn Beatrice, granddaughter Crystal Lynn, adopted daughters Lola (Ian, Jennifer, Leah & David), Lorna (Chase, Caitlyn, Blade, Lennox), Stacey (Sharmaine, Shayleigh, Shanacie), and Chrissie (Mathew); his brothers and sisters, Russell (Mary), Frank (Eileen), Keitha, Vanora (Clifford) and Eva; nephews Sanford Big Plume, Victor & Glen Starlight, Wilfred Big Crow, Vinny, Alvin & Cameron Crowchild, Brent Scout and many others; his many close friends; Jennifer Big Crow and numerous other nieces. Rodney was predeceased by his parents, George and Hilda Big Crow; brothers Clarence and Hector; sisters Helen Meguinis, Edith and Mabel; nephews Chiefy, William, Tony and Clinton; nieces Loretta, Sonya and Serena; as well as other relatives and friends too many to mention, with all apologies. Wake services will be held at the residence of Jennifer Big Crow (Tsuu T’ina Nation) on Sunday, November 29, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex, Tsuu T’ina Nation, on Monday, November 30, 2009 at 1:00 pm. Graveside service to follow at the Tsuu T’ina Cemetery. Feast to follow at Chilla Elementary School, Tsuu T’ina Nation. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Rodney Big Crow, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.