Obituary of Bull Bear

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Bull Bear (Sa ko yi po ta ki – Last To Take Flight Woman) on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 in Strathmore at the age of 88 years. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, auntie, and friend. Mary leaves to mourn her beloved children, Harrison, Robert (Rosemarie), Davis, Rosalind (Wayne), Horace (Celeste), Wanda (Bruce), and Audrey; adopted children, Angelina (Carmen) Bear Chief, Freda White, Tammy McMaster, and Lee Saini. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, David Bull Bear; children, Mary Celine Patrick, Christie, Harry, Joyce Jones, and Francis; brothers and sisters, Elizabeth Big Tobacco, Angela Cut Mane, Rosaria Red Gun, Tom Many Guns, Phillip Many Guns, Mary Louise Rabbit Carrier, Scotty Many Guns, Annie Fox, and Theresa Scalp Lock; grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mary was born on August 5, 1919 on the Siksika Nation where she resided all her life. Mary was the last surviving child of James and Mary Many Guns to make the journey home to our Heavenly Father’s Mansion. She lived a long and humble life, attending Crowfoot Residential School and later marrying David Bull Bear on June 29, 1937. In her early years she worked at Lou Ngs’ Café and grocery store, Blackfoot Hospital, and at the old Band Administration Office. Mary touched the lives of many people, both young and old, with her loving and caring ways. She was a very generous person, and was always willing to give to anyone who asked her for anything. As each of her brothers and sisters made their journey home to our Creator, she took her nieces and nephews as her own. She never treated anyone differently, always administered advice and guidance whenever and wherever it was needed. Each day she would include everyone in her prayers. Mary enjoyed attending Powwows and the Sundance. Wake Services will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church (Siksika Nation) on Sunday, May 18, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Catholic Church (Siksika Nation) on Monday, May 19, 2008 at 1:00 p.m., with Graveside Services to follow at Little Chicago Cemetery. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. The family would like to thank Siksika Home Care Staff, Strathmore Valley General Hospital Staff, Father Gary, and all who visited and prayed for Mary during her illness. In living memory of Mary Bull Bear, a tree will be planted at Siksika Nation, AB by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Eastside Memorial Chapel, 5388 MEMORIAL DRIVE N.E. Telephone: (403) 248-8585.