Richard Littlebird, Hotohke “Star”, was born to Harry and Annie Littlebird on April 26, 1961 in Crow Agency, Montana and began his journey to the Land of Beauty (Heaven) on July 7, 2021.
Richard was born very small and spent the first six years of his life in and out of hospitals, proving that he was a fighter. He later referred to himself as “Mr. Terrific”. Richard attended school in Priest River, Idaho and then Kicking Horse job corps to learn how to be a heavy equipment operator. He then decided to travel and explore the United States and Canada for several years; he loved to travel and meet new people. When he was finished, he attended Chief Dull Knife college where he earned his Associates Degree and began his hobby of computer programming. He was never afraid to do anything, as proven by his knack of tearing cars apart and then not being able to put them back together.
As he matured, he found his calling in the Native American Church. He explored his culture and heritage and started to learn to speak Cheyenne. He learned how to tie a drum and set up a teepee, as well as how to be of service to others. He loved to teach and was on his way to teach campers when he was in an accident, leaving him paralyzed. He was critical to the community in their times of need, helping establish the “Wake Committee” that would assist families in their time of need during the death of a loved one.
Of all the important aspects of his life, he was most proud of his children, Megan and John. They will always be his babies. Bear Creek Center played a large part in his last days of life to keep him secure.
Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Claudine Ryan Littlebird, his parents Harry Sr. and Annie Joyce; sisters: Aurelia, Ginger, Serena, Limona and his brother Fernando Littlebird, Sr., nieces: Juanita and Denise; granddaughter: Taneisha; Nephew: Charlie and Glen Littlebird Jr.and Grandson Rueben Cole and Good Bear Littlebird.
He is survived by: siblings: Glenn (Lillian), Steve, Theresa, Ruth (Mark), Harry, Rosie (Sam), Leo (Berta), Roland. His children; Megan Ridgebear and John Ridgebear, his adopted children Stacy Trujillo and Tracy Trujillo and his Grandchildren Aurora, Allaina, Baby Virginia, Joshua, Starlen Ridgebear and Champion
Richard had an abundant circle of family and friends who were close. We hope we did not leave anyone out. We are a very large family and we apologize if we have forgotten anyone.
Richard Littlebird, age 60, of Lame Deer
April 26, 1961 – July 7, 2021
Littlebird Family says
Our Condolences
Eugene Blackbear Jr says
Condolences to Family, Richard will be missed, for all the really good things he accomplished. Safe Journey home, Brother in-law!!!! You were the Best!!!!
Eugene Blackbear Jr & Family
Champion Walksalong says
My grandpa Richard I love you. You were the best drummer and singer ever, because of your gift of song to me one day I too will be a good drummer and singer. I practice daily I want to be good. I want to help people too like you. I never forgot you I prayed for you everyday through song cause I know that would go out to you to help your pain, you are my grandpa and the best of friends always. Love you – Champion
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
TO THE FAMILY OF RICHARD LITTLEBIRD, THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOSS OF A BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Calvin and Roxie Wilson says
So sorry for your loss.
Your Nephew! says
I see my uncle walking again, amongst his relatives. Singing and drumming for them, happy again. Miss the way it use to be. Bless all those left behind to carry on. We will see you again one day.
Mildred estell says
Uncle Richard! I miss you always! Miss your peyote singing the tapping with your pen! Always walking around and stuff until you were put in a wheelchair. I missed our stories and how we could always talk on the phone. I miss and love you