Allen Fisher
Hotoa’ȯhtšėhe’kėstaestse
“Short Bull”
May 28, 1981
July 9, 2018
“There is one thing for certain in this life other than death. People will come into your life and they will go, which in most cases is hard to process. You need not to worry about it, because the sun will rise in the morning and it could be your last. So chin up. You’ll be alright.”
~Allen Fisher, March 6, 2018
Hotoa’ȯhtšėhe’kėstaestse, Short Bull, left this world to continue his journey through the Milky Way on Monday, July 9, 2018. Allen Lynn Fisher (better known as Cool Al, Little Al, Square, or Fish) was born on May 28, 1981, in Hardin, Montana, to Donna Fisher and Jackie Burns, weighing 10lbs and 9.5 ounces. He was the second-born and first son of Donna Fisher. Al was baptized on December 15, 1985, at St. Labre Catholic Church.
The first few years of Al’s life were spent on the Fisher Butte Ranch with his mother, siblings, and grandpa Bernadine. The family then moved to the Ashland area, and Al began Head Start at St. Labre where he met his best friend, Jake Gion. Al was a rambunctious child filled with endless energy, an energy that enlivened St. Labre Indian Elementary School (Ashland, MT) and McKinley Elementary (Billings, MT). After graduating from 8th grade at St. Labre Indian Middle School, Al took his athletic and academic talents on the road first to Broadus, to St. Labre and then to Lame Deer Public High School. In his words, he was the “black sheep” of the family for graduating from Lame Deer High School in May 2000, instead of St. Labre, the school traditionally attended by his family. It should be known that Al really embraced the black sheep role.
Throughout his childhood, Al was raised right. He thrived in “rez” basketball culture and rodeo, playing in countless tournaments across the western United States and being in the rodeo life with relatives. Basketball was Al’s first love, but he was also a cowboy at heart and enjoyed sharing roping tips with his family; whether asked to or not. Al was an amazing, gifted athlete in both basketball and football and had many, many athletic accomplishments throughout his life. During his senior year, the Lame Deer Morning Star basketball team were the 4C District and 4C Conference Champions and made the State Tournament for the second time in two years. The Morning Stars finished fourth at State during Al’s senior year. Al was named Mr. Hustle and had the best 2- and 3-point field goal percentages at the State Tournament. Additionally, Al was a “wicked good” football player. The Morning Stars played 6-man high school football that reached the playoffs and played televised games his junior and senior seasons. In Al’s senior year, he was team MVP, made Southern C First-Team All-Conference at safety, First-Team All-Conference at tailback, and was selected to play in the 6-man State All-Star game where Al played so well that he was selected Offensive MVP. On the All-State Team, Al was selected 1st team offensive back and 2nd team defensive back. His energy was boundless and contagious; this served him well in his adult years as he continued to play basketball and took up bowling and softball. He was especially proud to have played with the Tongue River softball team. Al’s all-star quickness and speed served him well in all sports.
After high school, Al entered the world of work. His first job was with Fisher Construction. It gave him a great source of pride to help Fisher Construction replace the stained-glass windows of St. Labre Parish. He also worked for other road construction firms and spent time firefighting as part of the fuels crew in the Custer National Forest (Ashland Ranger District) before deciding to enter college at Montana State University-Bozeman in 2003. Al was a knowledge seeker, and it soon became apparent that college was the right choice. While at MSU, Al received the Phyllis Berger Award for leadership, a prestigious honor given through the MSU Center for Native American Studies. Leadership, scholarship, and building beautiful memories with Jake, Shanny, Huey, the Demery boys at 8-mile, and with all he encountered characterized Al’s college experience. He earned his bachelors’ degree in Political Science at MSU-Bozeman in 2010.
Al was encouraged by elders, especially Steve Brady, to complete his education and to come back to help his tribe and that is what he did. From MSU, Al moved home to work in many capacities for the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. He worked with the Environmental Protection Department as a solid waste coordinator and was instrumental in coordinating and bringing a CDL training to Lame Deer. He served as a media specialist for the Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council and as a Human Resources Director for the Tribe. Under the Montana Office of Public Instruction, he was a Wraparound Coordinator for Lame Deer Schools. He contributed to a first-of-its kind pilot project coordinated between Chief Dull Knife College, the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, and Bureau of Land Management. He worked closely with Steve Brady to carry out this project which was an ecoregional ethnographic assessment that involved meeting with Northern Cheyenne Elders to gather traditional knowledge and stories of Cheyenne values and worldview of our plant relatives toward protection of our natural systems. Al also spent time employed at the Boys and Girls Club of the Northern Cheyenne Nation. Allen Fisher was a true servant to his people.
On top of Al’s professional and academic accomplishments, he was so much more:
Al was a coach. He was passionate about developing people. He was drawn to kids and this showed through his dedication to, and enthusiasm for, coaching. Al loved coaching football and basketball and started coaching elementary football and 7th grade boys’ basketball in Bozeman in 2007. Regardless of the level, Al wanted to push his teams to their full potential. He was so proud that one of his former football players from Bozeman received an offer and played football at the University of Washington, and that he coached one of Representative Steve Daines’ children while in Bozeman! Recently, he was the head coach for the boys’ basketball team at Lame Deer High School. His teams were always successful because of his love for his players and passion for the game. Al’s love for basketball was so strong that he was unafraid to correct referees while in the stands or on the bench as coach! He was willing to mix it up to create a spark and light a fire for the teams he loved.
Al was passionate and caring. He lived life to the fullest. He was a person who had boundless energy; who shared his smile, humor, and laughter with everyone he met. Al’s spirit was bright and infectious. Regardless of his own feelings or mood, he was always quick to share a laugh. He was entertaining with his stories and deep with his thoughts. He could argue sovereignty and political issues like none other, and then, go play with his nieces and nephews moments later. Al’s core was centered around life and he was a model for how to live it.
Al honored his family. He was a humble person and lived in a way that honored his family first. Al was the first coach of many of his nieces, nephews and young cousins whether it was in basketball, football, rodeo, or life. All people felt valued in Al’s presence. His love for his family was vast and expanded to people throughout the world. Al knew no strangers, only family members and friends. He loved all, will always be loved by all who knew him.
Al was an advocate for the people he loved. He truly lived the values and was knowledgeable of the tribal systems of the Cheyenne and Oglala Lakota, the tribes to which he belonged. Al was initiated into gourd dancing at a young age. He knew the histories of both tribes and was quick to share with anyone who would listen. His passion for tribal history and knowledge of treaties and federal law allowed him to think critically about how each shapes our current governmental systems. Al knew how to bring people together around culture. He worked incredibly hard to help and look out for his people. He was considered an exemplary member of the cultures he represented.
Al was compassionate and kind. He was giving in so many ways. From giving of his time to help with family events and friends needing help, to giving his possessions to whoever was in need. Al believed in treating everyone as a person, as an equal human being. He practiced and lived this in his position as a 6th grade teacher, helping students gain confidence and feel appreciated and honored for who they are. He was a mentor, a coach, a loyal friend, a charismatic individual who made everyone he met feel better. He lit up a room with his captivating smile and laugh. His stories would make your stomach and cheeks (not your butt cheeks) hurt from laughing. He was magical in his ability to remove anyone’s pain with his personality.
Al had many other facets to his life that are innumerable to capture. However, he had a deep love for the Tongue River and surrounding area. He loved fishing the river and spent hours with his hook in the water with friends and family. He was also a very adept and talented drummer who played for the St. Labre, Broadus and Lame Deer pep bands. You could hear and feel his drumming before you even entered the gym.
Allen Lynn Fisher was the kind of person with whom you must surround yourself. He was one of the rare light bringers, game changers, and magic makers in this world. He challenged you, cracked your heart open, lifted you up, and made your spirit soar to new heights. He was an amazing person who recognized the awesomeness of all of creation. Hotoa’ȯhtšėhe’kėstaestse, Short Bull, was a wild heartbeat, someone you wanted on your journey and in your tribe.
Allen is survived by his mother Donna Fisher and his father Jackie (Teri) Burns; Adopted parents Scott (Betty) Gion; his grandmother Geraldine Fisher, Theda Foote; his sisters: Melissa Fisher and Harlee Burns, Jodeci Gion; brothers: Shawn Fisher, Wyatt (Shaika), Rylan, Wylie, and Tyler Burns, Hooper Thompson, Jacob (Shanny) Gion, Cody (Courtney) Gion; Nieces: Velma, Katie, and Shelby Fisher, Jessa Gion, Wacey Porter, Jandra Levi, Shiloh (Clay) McCormick; Nephews: Milen (Sara and baby Kaizlyn), Clancy, and Brayden Fisher, Carter Gion, Ty (Leona) Fischer, Virgil Tommy Z McCormick,Isaiah and Blake Tallbear; Uncles: Arlin, Vernon (Paula), Virgil (Myra), Steven Sr. (Martha), Allen (Sharon), Roy (Stephanie) Fisher, Ronald, JD (Amy), and Jimmy (Sue Chen) Burns, Huey (Jen) Foote, Dewey Foote; Aunts: Thelma Beaverheart, Shelly Fisher, Karyl (Cal) Winslow, Georgia Burns, Bonnie Burns, Marcellene Shoulderblade, Wilma Shoulderblade, Mary Shoulderblade, Sara Young whom is also his God Mother, Richard McCormick Sr. whom is his God Father, Kateri (Zac) Foote, Lavonda Foote.
Cousins: Shawna (Ken), Corbin, Riley, Delaney, Randy, Elizabeth, Jonah, Blaine, Krystal, Kasey, Jayme, Janelle, Josie, Marti, Virgil Jr, Kittybelle, Vernon (Alicia), Ronnie (Arly), Jantessa, Preston, Samantha Pourier, Dane (Jaydee), Lindsey, Sherrell, Steven Jr., Richelle, Rissa, Isaiah, Steven Spottedwolf, Roy Jr., Bernadine, Bryan, Marissa, Darrell (Holly), James (Melissa), Arlin, Stewart, Linda (Emerson), Bernie (Erika),Sharlyce Parker, Richard (Camille) Jr., Virgil, Tommy Sr., Misty (Clint), Edith, Shelly, Sharee, Ronette, Ronnie, Robbie, Jolene, Sugar, Mia, John Jr. Payton, Waylan, Kyle, Shanlynn, Lane, Stacey, Phylis, Melanie, Jayna, Georgette, Junior, Casey, and Cassie. Kyle (Magi), Mariah, Kelsey, Kadence, Khloe, Baby Dale, Barry, Wendell Lefthand, Fredrerica (Bill) Lefthand and Kyle Jr. Fraser.
Special Friends: Jana Waters, Jr (Debbie) Charette, Joni Kay(Ollyana), Gloria Waters, Tommy (Brandy) Charette, Huey (Jennifer) Foote, Barry (Roxanne) Howe, Billie Black Hoop, Brian(Edina) Redstar, Richard (StaciBeth) Seestheground Jr., Muddy Grill Family, John Lei and Family, Justin Hugs, Festus Hugs, Austin (Tanya) Two Moons and family, Gernell (Shalene) Killsnight, Ben and Sam Demerey, Oly and Theresa McMakin, Eleece (John) Hill, Melissa Lonebear, Antone (Sherry) Foote, Simon(September) Walksalong, Brandon Tall Bull, Rae Dawn Lei, His God Son Payton Lonebear, Trisha(Eric) Sherman, Hank(Chelsey) Samonte, Ray(Johanna) Martin, Shari (Mike) Petryszak, Shirleen (Mike) Hieb, Val (Bryan) Martin, Shannon (Rob) Gronowski, Shelly (Steve) Schmitz, Tim (Liz) Martin, Larae (Doug) Paulson, Mary Jo (Jens) Andersen, Linda Brady and Family, Bob (Sally), Matt and Sara Hagadorn, Coach Jason Grebe, Steve (Tammy) Ewing, Gordon Real Bird and Family.
Extended families include Shoulderblade, Killsnight, Spang, Two Two, Foote, Littlewhiteman, Black Weasel, Janis, Gress. Our family is very large and we apologize if we have left anyone out in our time of griefs.
Allen is preceded in death by his grandparents Bernadine Fisher, Thelma Two Two, Emil Fraser, Dempsey & Annie Burns, Uncles Milen One Bear, Eugene Beaverheart, Robbie Burns, Aunts Leslie Fisher, Bernadine Bahr, Velma Lee Fisher, Eva Mae One Bear, Cousins, Lisa Burns, Tiffany Burns, Ozzy Wilson, Brother, Dustin Two Moons, Preston Gray, Nephews Clint Ross Fitzpatrick, Jr., Xavier Alan Charles Gion, and Mentors Steven Brady, Sr. and Charles Littleoldman.
Special Groups:
Lame Deer High School Boys Basketball Teams, Lame Deer Elementary Football Team, St. Labre High School Girls Basketball Teams, Blue Waters H.S. Girls Travel Ball Team, Jr. High Bozeman Boys Basketball Team, Jr. High Bozeman Football Team, No Luv, ShyTown, Laurel Pool Basketball Officials, Nick’s Hamburgers Bowling Team, Nick’s Furies Bowling Team, Community Center Bowl Bowling Team, Waters Edge Bowling Team, Tongue River Mens Softball Team, LaFamilia CoEd Softball Team, past and present N.C. Tribal Council
Service Schedule
Rosary Service
7:00
Thursday July 12, 2018
Fisher Family Home
2 Miles North on Tongue River Road
Ashland, MT 59003
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 am to Carl Bement Memorial Hwy
Friday July 13, 2018
Lame Deer High School
Carl Bement Memorial Hwy
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Service Schedule
Rosary Service
7:00
Thursday July 12, 2018
Fisher Family Home
2 Miles North on Tongue River Road
Ashland, MT 59003
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 am to Carl Bement Memorial Hwy
Friday July 13, 2018
Lame Deer High School
Carl Bement Memorial Hwy
Lame Deer, MT 59043
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Setovaatse Medicine Bull says
“The good die young”My condolences to Allen Fisher family, relatives, friends. Such a friendly young man and will be missed by all he touched in his life. Offered a prayer and burned cedar.
McMakin Family says
Our prayers of comfort are with the families, youth, and community. Al’s impact to our community was tremendous on all levels. A hand shake or a hug was always part of who he was. The impact that he made on our children was as a big brother. I would always tease and tell him …why do you have a diva for a manger…Al would always respond…Aww she’s good. Rocco and Al had a relationship of competitiveness. They loved talking smack to each other…But Al had dreams for both our kids and our hopes are they keep that in mind. Prayers, prayers, prayers
Ambrose Sr. And Clementine Seminole says
Prayers and condolences toall of Al’s family and friends and people that new him from being the best coach ever.my heart goes out the the family.
Angeline Gardner says
I just read our last conversation. It was good laughs, like always. Your heart was amazing and I’ll forever remember you and that smile. Fly high, Morning Star. ⭐
Mandy Azure says
My Dear friend Allen, my heart was broken when I heard the news! Prayers to all of your loved ones and friends! Fly high my friend. The world got a little dimmer the day you left us! RIP
Neil & Diane Beartusk says
My heartfelt condolences to Al’s family & friends To his mother I send a special prayer for your heart to be comforted and your grief be gentle in the days ahead. Maheo’o be with each of you.
KIMBERLY says
WE WERE SO SAD TO HEAR OF AL’S PASSING….GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY AT THIS TIME. AL WAS A GOOD PERSON AND WAS AN AWESOME COACH. HE WILL TRULY BE MISSED!::(
JR AND KIM SPANG
Patty Kay Brien says
Sending my heartfelt condolences to Donna, Melissa, Shawn, Geraldine, all the family & friends who knew & loved Allen.. (Al) He always had a smile for everyone.. God bless you & comfort you in this time of grief.. You’re in my thoughts & prayers.. ♡♡♡
Lisette Camacho says
My deepest condolences to your Family! Allen was a great man! He touched so many lives and made a difference in the lives of so many youth. RIP Lil Al
Carissa says
Prayers for strength and comfort for the family. He was a great person, teacher and coach and will be missed by many!
Carissa. Burton. Devin
Lillian Red Woman Big Man says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Tammy Burgee says
Sending my deepest sympathies to Allen’s family such a great loss he was always a nice an kind person got to see him last year an got a big hug I’ll never forget!!! Love an prayers to his mother Donna Fisher, Melissa Rae Fisher an Shawn Fisher May our Lord give u strength an guidance in the days to come love from The Burgee and Fisher family in North Dakota
Joe Huss says
Al you were always a huge supporter in my sobriety. You would always be so positive. I know you will be missed dearly. You had such a huge impact in many of your basketball players lives. Always pushing them to be their best. Journey well brother.
Ann Knows His Gun & Family says
Deepest Condolences to Donna, Melissa, Shawn Fisher & Burns Family. Prayers to the Basketball boys who loved Lil Al. He was a great influence in the sport, Friendly & always smiled. Shocked our ppl who had connection with him. So sad & will be missed. RIP Allen
Anna Bothum says
Thoughts and prayers to Al’s family. He was always so sweet and kind.
Scott Azure says
Devistated to hear of Allens changing of worlds this morning. I played a ton of basketball with and against him for alot of years. Couldnt ask for a better guy. I know, with him being a communuty leader, coach, advocate for youth, and a fisherman, his presence will be deeply missed by people of all ages. As a coach, my prayers are with anyones whos lives hes touched or changed through sports. And to his family and close friends, Al was one of the good ones, the kind that dont come along often. Embrace everything he left behind. Continue his good work. My prayers are with you all. Dokśa Aké
Sara Rushing says
I am so terribly sad to hear the news of Allen’s passing. I loved getting to have him in class at MSU, and staying in touch with him as he made his way in the world after. My deepest condolences to his family. I still have, and cherish, the beautiful blanket Allen presented me at his senior Powwow at MSU, which I believe his mother Donna made by hand. Sending much love to you all in this sorrowful time.
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
Condolences to family and friends. May you all find peace during this difficult time. Share stories and keep those memories close. Hugs and prayers.
GEORGE SIMMONS says
My heart goes out to the family and friends of Allen Fisher, and also to all those young people who looked up to this outstanding young man. I first knew Allen as an outstanding ball player, often whipping up on our Forsyth team, but always a true sport. Later I had the pleasure of watch him be a great coach to the next generation. Most recently I’ve called him friend, he always greeting me with a handshake and a pleasant hello. I am honored to have had this great young man in my life. Maheo”o gained a special spirit. RIP my friend.
Lynsey Dearth says
Heartfelt condolences, love and prayers from our family to Donna, Geraldine, and all of Allen’s family. His kindness and love for the community was so apparent and amazing. Rest in paradise Allen.
Lynsey (Parrish) Dearth, Janie Spang and Family
Carmen Burgee Family says
Our Deepest Condolences Donna and Family, it was shocking to hear as we had just seen you all in Wyoming, I’m soo glad Anevay got to meet Al, I’m glad we seen you all, Sending our love and prayers at this time asking Creator to give you all strength in the days to come, Al was such a Sweetheart glad we were able to get one of his Amazing loving hugs. RIP Al Fisher you will be greatly missed, Love from your SD Family ???
Brent Walker says
So sorry for your loss. May God lift you up in your time of need he surely will be missed.
Kristi says
Allen lit up any room he walked into, believed in others and encouraged them, strived to be his best and had a smile for miles. The world is indeed a darker place without him today… His influence will ripple through life and feed people who in turn will feed others. My condolences to Allen’s family and community who have lost a great young man in this tragedy. Rest in power, Al.
Patsy Brey Houseman says
So sorry for your loss, you are in my prayers–God be with you at this difficult time
Misty LaFranier says
Al was one of kind that’s for sure! From high school as Morning Stars to college as Bobcats, we seemed to just be in the same place at the same time throughout life. I started my first job down in Ft. Washakie WY and lo and behold, there was Al. Always got that big hug and smile no matter what. We had some good times in high school when the Morning Stars were coached by Gordon Realbird, I’m sure a lot of people remember those dayz. The community was brought together by basketball and followed the team all over the place. It made me proud when he went back to Lame Deer and brought the Morning Stars back to life again!! Even the community was changed by his presence there and that’s what a good spirited person does when they are around. His energy was contagious and obvious, watching him run up and down the court when he coached. As many times that we met up in life, i know that when its my time to go, we will for sure meet up again! Prayers for the Fisher family and all those that had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be missed….
Michael, Kristi and girls says
Fisher Family, Prayers and condolences to you and the family. At this time.
Hugs and prayers are with you all. LIL Allen was an awesome man. Gonna be missed by many more people then ever imagine.
irvin farr says
Never experienced such a devoted and excitable coach. He was definitely there for his team and always had a smiling way about himself…..R.I.P………
Lomar & Trina says
Dont know where to start bro,sweat,tears,blood,hugs,arguments to celebration. We been through it all bro on the court off the court.im at a loss for words .I will forever hold our memories and ballin times close to my heart. Joyrney well brother ,you and Dustin tear up those golden courts and save a game for the rest of the crew..until we meet again brother Ladz..love and prayers to Donna,Melissa,Sean and the whole Fisher Crew..
Pam Kania says
What a shock to hear of Allen’s death. Please know that I am praying for all of you as you grieve.
Love,
Pam Kania
Reno Charette says
My heart breaks for the family and community that lost such a great person. I pray that our Creator protects you while you grieve this one of a kind individual. I’m sure that he’ll be organizing our ancestors in the other camp.
Joi Garza says
Donna, Melissa and family
We are so sorry to hear of Allen’s passing. His friendliness made him shine, and that is how we will remember him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. Please know that we are here for you Donna.
Love from the Jimmy Fisher family in Billings
Richard D. (Washington) says
When I heard the news of the loss of my friend Allen from my mother today. I had to take some time to process it and too some time to reflect on the times our paths crossed. I want to share a couple of stories with his family. I first met Allen in Lame Deer when we were going to play ball in Las Vegas with Champ,Jarvis, Pat, Virgil, Richard W.O.I. It was a fun trip with lots of good basketball and some of even better memories. Running around circus-circus and teasing each other. Another was when we were at the Bobcats basketball camp and Allen was being Allen (which was funny and joking) well one of the coaches made him to defensive slides around the gym witha folded chair between his legs. It’s as funny as is sounds. We all got a good laugh watching him do it but he did it the whole time with that infectious smile that he had. We crossed paths other times but it has been some time now that I got to see him and shake his hand but I have and will always have much respect for Allen. From the sounds of the other comments he had a positive impact on so many people especially our youth.
Richard D (Washington) says
His legacy will live on and I believe in faith that he is with our Lord and Savior! May God Bless and comfort his family!! Rest well my friend.
RICHARD
Tracy Spang says
Still lost in words about Allen’s passing. We had many great times growing on on Birney divide. And then through our college years and after. Everytime we met we wood catch up on our most recent accomplishments. Glad he found he’s calling as coach. I heard a Marine general say ” if you can change the world for aleast eight people you can change the world for another eight and another, over time you’ll have changed the world for millions” I believe he has changed the world for those who he coached. His legacy will always live on. Rest in peace cousin and brother I will sure miss you.
Jay & Carla Johnson says
Our deepest condolences to the Fisher family in the loss of your loved one. May he rest in peace and give everyone strength during this time. God Bless you all.
KR Bixby says
Little Al was a passionate and competitive in everything he did. If it was catching the big cats on the tongue or playing/coaching basketball. He did it with all of his passion and love. Al always made me proud for him and for the Fisher family. You Will be missed, let alone there will be stories told about you Little Al. Miss you bro.
Samantha Killsnight & Family says
Our Thoughts and Prayers to the Family
Candy wooten says
You touch our families lives in the short years we have known you. You made us a part of your family. You touched our daughter Kasey Rice heart and life in such a great way. Thanks for all you did for her and our family. You were one of her favorite coaches. We will miss you and I know Kasey will miss the text messages checking on her and making sure she knew she was ok and letting her know how proud of her you were. I know you will be watching down on her every day. RIP. We love you
ROBERT J. LITTLE WOLF says
TO THE FAMILY OF ALLEN FISHER, THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR MOST SINCERE CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOST OF BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Zane and Sandy Spang says
If our hearts hurt this bad to know what happened and that he is no longer here – I can’t imagine how you can bear the loss! Dear Family, we love you and send our love. He was a treasure – always caring about others. Death leaves you feeling so helpless but the Bible holds out a hope of happier time for us all. Remember that the Bible gives out this hope to all. Revelation 21:3,4: “With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes,g and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.i The former things have passed away.” Never say good bye.
Tina M Castro says
Donna, Shawn, Melissa and all of the Fisher family- like the rest of Montana I am truly saddened and in disbelief by Allen’s passing. He is honest to God an individual who had the unique gift to have a positive impact on everyone he met and knew. There are not enough words in the dictionary to describe this awesome young man and how he made people feel and of the sincere nature of who he was. I am so sad and sorry for your loss and the loss of an entire community.
Holding you all in love, prayers and good thoughts.
Tina Castro
Jennifer Woodcock-Medicine Horse says
I am so very sorry for your loss, it can only be devastating and shocking to lose Al at such a young age, when you expected to have him there for many decades to come. I remember how involved he was with the AIC at MSU-Bozeman, and what a cheerful upbeat spirit he had, it was a pleasure to be around him.
Emily Evans says
My condolences to your Family at this difficult time, my prayers are with you all ⭐️
Ryan Tooke says
Donna and Thelma,
I am sorry to hear about your son and nephew. The pride he gave both of you while he coached was fun to watch from the other side of the gym. My friends, you are in my prayers today and for days to come.
KayCee Gardner says
What a beautiful tribute to a great man, leader, friend. He will be missed but never forgotten! May his energy, compassion, and giving spirit live on. Sending prayers to his family and the entire community.
Tommy &Annette Fisher and Family says
Donna. Our hearts are heavy and saddened. Please know that we are praying for you. We wished we could take away your pain. If only it would be that easy. He definately left his mark on this world and you must have been Sooo proud to be his mother. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Prayers and Love for you and the family.
Tommy &, Annette and Family!
L. Foster says
My deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Al. We all know that the sting of Death is so painful, however, Almighty God have promise that he will wipe out every tear from our eyes and death will be no more, neither will anything that will make us sad. (Revelation 21: 3, 4) As for the many that have fallen asleep in death, he promise to bring them back to life, here on earth. (John 5: 28, 29; Psalms 37: 29) To learn more, please visit jw.org and view the faith strengthening Video: What is the condition of the Dead, and much more.
Tara (Markuson) Smith says
I just can’t believe this news. Al went to college in Bozeman the same time I did. I cannot remember ever running into him when he wasn’t smiling. When I was coaching in Ekalaka, he would often comment back and forth discussing basketball and life. I always appreciated his perspective and support. This obituary is such an accurate tribute to him. I hope his compassion and genuine desire to better the world lives on in all those who knew him. My deepest condolences. -Tara
Mark Ator says
I am out of town.
I will not be able to attend services.
I would like pass along my cocondolences as well as those of Colstrip Schools to all family, friends, and athletes. We will miss Allen.
Mark Ator
Mindy Ator
Mya Ator
Ty Ator
Shirl Robinson says
Sincere condolences. He always had a smile and a hug for everyone. He was a big influence on the younger kids and everyone he met. He will surely be missed.
Edith Nightwalker says
Donna, Melissa & girls and family:
Sorry to hear of your loss. Your pain is our pain. Al was always kind, courteous and always smiling. Great Coach!!!! He will be missed at the games. I can still see him laughing at the powwow when Rueben announce he was holding the camera backwards while shooting pics. May God be will you all at this most difficult time. From Edie, Angel, Myleigh, Megwan
Thomas Spang says
Donna & Melissa family: Thomas Spang fr Rawlins, WY says: So, so sorry to hear about Cool Al, unbelievable. Sorry I can’t be there but praying for all your families at this difficult time. My best friend-bro-cuz, in high school and after, “COOL AL”. Cannot express my feelings at this time, still in shock, but I will be writing to you soon. Love all of you.
Angel Lei-Becker says
This all seems unreal, The guy who would walk into any room and make each and everyone in there feel special. That will certainly be missed, please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time and after. (((Hugs)))
Jack Fleming says
Donna, Geraldine, Jackie and all the Fisher and Burns families. You are all in my prayers as you grieve the loss of this remarkable young man
Doug, LaRae, Matt and Josh Paulson says
We first met Little Al many years ago and seen him a number of times on and off over the years at family gatherings. We were so very blessed to have gotten to know Al much better and shared special time with him last week just having fun! His zest for life and spirit of kindness was something so beautiful and needed in our human world. Thank you Al for your positive and sincere kindness and sharing your stories with us and our boys.
Dennis and Bonnie Beardontwalk says
Fisher/Burns family,
May God comfort you in you time of sorrow.
Sincere Condolences.
Jace Schillinger says
My condolences to the Fisher Family. I had the fortunes of competing against Al in high school. He brought out the best in everyone, including the people he competed against. The world lost a good one. He was a tremendous person. Rest In Peace Al!
Jace Schillinger
andrita Harris says
Fisher/Burns Family
My Deepest condolences, prayers to all. LIT AL is still the best in my heart. Hard to loss another cousin.
Donna my prayers are with you always. Little AL always had a smile and made you laugh.
Andrita, Dylan, Tegan, Billy and Dorothy Harris (LEE)
Rita/Art McDonald says
Donna, Geraldine and all the Fisher family our love and prayers are with you today. We know the grief you are feeling is unbearable. Your dearest Allen will never be forgotten and will remain in so many people’s hearts forever. Our whole community grieves with you for this terrible loss. God bless and keep you.
Mario Small says
Great to have known you Sir. Prayers to Mother Donna Fisher.
Mario and Crystal Small
TEAM REZSOX says
We were sad to hear of Big Al’s passing. Condolences to the Fisher family during his unexpected passing. RIP Champ.
Team Rezsox
Terri Paulus says
Although I never met Al I heard great things about him & was hoping to meet him in the near future…May all those who were privileged to know and be touched by Al/coach/friend/companion find comfort knowing he is with our Creator.
Joan Knobloch says
Our prayers go out to the families affected by the loss of a kind and considerate individual in the community. He always had the time to stop and say hello. He always thought to give back to the community. He will be missed by many. Prayers
Russell Brooks says
Been feeling the loss strongly over the last few days, heartfelt prayers & condolences for his family & everyone who knew & loved him. When I had been gone a number of years & came back several years ago, I’ll always remember running into Al outside the tribal building one day. His surprise, eyes sparkling, big smile & warmth in conversation while we caught up a little – that moment will forever stay with me. His energy will live on, in our hearts & in the universe. Be good to each other, love as he loved, stay vigilant & passionate, live life with fullness, compassion & purpose as he did. We’ll see you again at the next camp, Al ♡ Nea’ese
Jason Standing Elk says
Our prayers to Donna and family.
Gary Remington says
Donna and Family. We were truly saddened to hear of Als passing. I still to this day talk about Al as the spark that helped us to the football state semi-finals his senior year. I am happy to here Al continued that spark by serving his family, friends and community. We are all in a better place for having known Al. Our sincerest condolences. Gary & Julie Remington. Brittney McGlone
Eric Olsen says
It was my privilege to know Allen for a short time when he was here in Wyoming. I added him on FB because I realized immediately that he was a high quality Person.
Prayers to the Fisher Family and Allen’s Friends, Players and the entire Northern Cheyenne Tribe near and far.
I know that Allen inspired greatness in everyone he met