Andrew “Andy” Elkshoulder, Sr., our beloved father, husband, uncle, grandfather, coach, friend, son and teacher known in Cheyenne as Deve’e ve’hme’ose, “Night Walker” left this world at age 70 while encircled by his family and loved ones at the RiverStone Health Hospice Home in Billings, MT.
Andy was born on May 28, 1952, in Birney, MT to George Elkshoulder, Sr. and Eva Lame Bear- Elkshoulder. He was one of six siblings, five brothers and one sister. Two of these siblings, Clifford Bighead, Sr., and Emogene Bighead, were from his mother’s previous marriage. Following Clifford and Emogene was Leonard, Mark, George Jr., and Eugene, whom he had a special bond with as they were the youngest of the siblings. Andy grew up on the family ranch in the country of Birney, MT where he became known as an avid horseman and developed a profound love for horses throughout his life.
Andy attended school at St. Labre Catholic School where he was notorious for his outstanding athleticism in the sports of basketball and track and field, earning numerous awards and achievements. Most notable of his achievements was that he scored sixty-three points in a basketball game (prior to the implementation of the three-point line); he was an All-State Athlete his Junior and Senior year; and state track champion in the 440 his senior year, additionally, he was honored as Athlete of the Year. He graduated high school from St. Labre Catholic School on May 19, 1971, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1971 to 1975. Andy also obtained a degree in education from Montana State University of Billings.
Andy attended Southwest Indian Poly Institute (SIPI) in Albuquerque, NM where he met and later united in marriage to Ella Badonie-Elkshoulder for 45 years whom he loved very much. From this union Andy and Ella were blessed with five sons and two daughters: Andy Jr., Courage, Drew, Neil, Jon, Cristal, and Andriea. Andy was extremely proud of his children and always expressed how blessed he was to be their father. He stood by their side no matter what, he supported them in all their endeavors. Andy knew education was essential and he always insured to encourage and fully support his children to meet educational goals. He always express how proud he was of all his children for obtaining college degrees in various studies. Upon his passing, Andy gained thirteen grandchildren and one great grandchild. Andy coached basketball at Hysham, Forsyth, Lame Deer, St. Labre, and Lodge grass. There were many state titles and championships won throughout his years of coaching. He took great pride in teaching youth and mentoring them at the best of their athletic ability.
In the realm of the Cheyenne way of life, Andy was a member of the Dog Soldier society. He first served the role as whip man but later became the whistle carrier up to the time of his passing. Andy was also a Sundance carrier, ceremonial healer, and Roadman in the Native American Church. In the later half of this life, he made it his life purpose to help others and share his teachings through his wisdom and experience of the Native American Church. This allowed him to gain many wonderful friends, acquaintances, and extended relatives from the states of California, New Mexico, South Dakota, and Colorado. Andy would often express his love for all his relatives, and they were always in his daily prayers.
Andy is survived by his wife, Ella, children; Courage, Andy, Jr (Juliet), Drew (Alethea), Neil, Jon (Jessica), Cristal, Andriea (Isaiah), 14 grandchildren who were dear to his heart; Ruth, Aleiah, Jaraya, Payton, Cesar, Laiya, Savannah, Andy Mae, Caidynce, Jett, McKesson, Courage Fame, Vladimir, Hosteen and 1 great granddaughter; Karsyn, brothers; Mark Wandering Medicine, and Eugene Elkshoulder; special friends, Joe Fox, Sr. who he coached with; and many friends and relatives. Andy is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Leonard Elkshoulder, Sr., George Elkshoulder, Sr., Clifford Bighead, Sr., and sister, Emogene Bighead.
A traditional wake service will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2022, at the Elkshoulder family residence located on the Birney Divide, beginning at 7 p.m. A short funeral service will follow on Friday, July 1, 2022, at the same residence at 11:00 AM. Burial services will proceed at the Birney Cemetery of the N.C. Birney District. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes is charge of helping the family with arrangements. The family would like for those who wishes to attend to please abide by the COVID-19 restrictions. Please wear a mask and keep a safe distance.
The family would like to thank the staff of St. Vincent Healthcare Center and Riverstone Health and Hospice home, especially the nurses: Kyla, Paula and James. Even though he has passed he will always be and continue to be our hero. He will be always be cherished and loved as the years go by.
A traditional wake service will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2022, at the Elkshoulder family residence located on the Birney Divide, beginning at 7 p.m. A short funeral service will follow on Friday, July 1, 2022, at the same residence at 11:00 AM. Burial services will proceed at the Birney Cemetery of the N.C. Birney District. Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes is charge of helping the family with arrangements. The family would like for those who wishes to attend to please abide by the COVID-19 restrictions. Please wear a mask and keep a safe distance.
The family would like to thank the staff of St. Vincent Healthcare Center and Riverstone Health and Hospice home, especially the nurses: Kyla, Paula and James.
Even though he has passed he will always be and continue to be our hero. He will always be cherished and loved as the years go by. Love your wife and children.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Thursday June 30, 2022
Elkshoulder Family Residence
Birney Divide, Montana 59043
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Friday July 1, 2022
Elkshoulder Residence
Birney Divide, Montana 59043
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Friday July 1, 2022
Birney Cemetery
Birney, Montana 59012
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Thursday June 30, 2022
Elkshoulder Family Residence
Birney Divide, Montana 59043
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Friday July 1, 2022
Elkshoulder Residence
Birney Divide, Montana 59043
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Friday July 1, 2022
Birney Cemetery
Birney, Montana 59012
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Wanda Bixby says
Keeping you all in prayer. Bless his soul. Thunder loved “Mr. Andy” many fond memories.
Pearly Bonilla says
I will miss you Mr. Andy. I am forever grateful for your presence in my life. I’ll never forget your support and kindness. You will be forever in our hearts and prayers.
Eugene Blackbear, Jr says
Condolences to Elkshoulder Family!! Gonna miss my uncle, had many good times, sitting in the NAC tipi and praying together!!
Sherri Bartholomew says
Andy was a great athlete. He was do proud of his winning basketball team. Andy had a great enthusiasm fo life. May Andy fly high with our Creator. God bless Andy on his way to the new camp, and God Bless Andy’s family at this great time of Loss. Sherri
Roberta roth says
Ella So sorry to hear of Andy passing. keeping you in prayer.
Janet Lassen says
My sincere prayers and condolences for the Elkshoulder family. I am so sorry to hear of the heartbreaking loss for your family and for the Northern Cheyenne Nation.
Amy says
Sending our sincere condolences from our family to yours. Mr. Elkshoulder taught my kids the Cheyenne language at St. Labre. Andy always asked if my kids are speaking Cheyenne and I would say yes. Thank you Andy for teaching the language. We will keep your family in our prayers.🙏🏽❤️ VJ, Amy White Woman & family
Dave Janvier says
Gonna miss you brother …..nac will miss you
Jackie Tang says
My sincere condolences to Ella and family. Andy was a very inspirational man who touched many lives, including my sons. He was a fluent Cheyenne speaker and knew the Cheyenne culture well, he will be greatly missed for his knowledge in those areas. May he Rest in Peace with Ma’heo’o and all his relatives that await him and welcome him. Ma’heo’o give comfort to Ella and family. Prayers for strength and well-being.
Sheri BigBack Bement says
Nėstaévȧhósevóomȧtse Coach Elkshoulder. Ne’ahese.
Dellmarie Dull Knife-Bradfield says
My sincere condolences to this family. I 8knewAndy from St. Labre. Always happy to see me with the greeting…Cha! Dellmarie, where have you been?”
Mary Jane Robinson says
Andy was simply the best. His humor was some of the craziest of fun, his kindness and compassion limitless. My heart is with you all. <3
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
TO THE FAMILY OF ANDREW (ANDY) ELKSHOULDER, SR., 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.
Nellie Speelman says
My prayers are with the family for their loss. He is no longer in pain and suffering. And you all have good memories he loved his family. Hugs and love to each of you 🏀
Damion Killsback says
I’m in disbelief! Having known Andrew and played for him on a few teams with Drew, Neil and Jon – like 3 more brothers to me. Condolences and Prayers to the Elkshoulder Family and our Cheyenne Community.
Bitsoi says
We are saddened by the news. Our deepest condolences to the Elkshoulder family. He will be missed dearly. We will cherish our memories of the visits and meetings you ran for our family here in Naschitti., NM. Hugs and prayers. 🙏🏼🙏🏼 .
Orie Medicinebull says
So very sorry for loss of a wonderful family man who was very encouraging and supportive of all ages from preschool to elders. Sending condolences, prayers, love, and hugs to family and friends. Wishing a good journey home and until such time.
Darlene Wooden legs says
My deepest condolences!! Prayers for your family at this time.
Donna Bends says
My sincere condolences to the Elkshoulder family. He touched the lives of so many many people, especially the young. He taught them to be winners and to stay on the right road in life.
Montoya's says
Que Dios los bendiga
Bonnie Bigback says
To all of Andy’s family, my sincere condolences.
Lorraine Ortega says
Great sympathy I convey to the family and friends of a wonderful man. I didn’t know you very long on the Saint Labre campus, but you had a tremendous presence there with the children. Ella, I am so very sorry for your loss, but I know that your devotion and tender love made such a difference to him over the course of his earthly life – may God Bless all of you, and may you rest in Peace, dear Andy!
Lara Callahan says
Sending my sincerest love , admiration and respectful wishes of peace and comfort for the entire Elkshoulder Family at this time. I so appreciated Andy Elkshoulder and all the wonderful contributions he made while here with us, and those that live on through his Relatives. ❤️
Dick Fletcher says
I have no words to express my thoughts about the loss of Andy. , just many great memories. Andy was not only a mentor to so many whithin his too short time on this earth and am sure he will continue this quest in eternal life. Andy was an often welcome visitor here at home during his high school days at St. Labre, before seeking and obtaining his quest for further education, which he again obtained. Thoughts and prayers to all the Elkshoulder Family at this difficult/heartbreaking time. God Bless and RIP ANDY, hugs!
Alan and Joleen Spang says
We love you Andy thank you for teaching Kaelene Spang basketball at st labre.
Dravawn, Daynee & D'Lerrhn says
Sending our sincerest condolences & hugs to the family. He was my basketball coach in HS. Then he became a good family friend. Then he was my daughter, Daynee’s, favorite & best preschool teacherv ever (she says). Every time she seen him around, she would run up to him & give him a big hug♡. I’ll miss his random jokes & laughter. Rest well, Andy. My family & I will miss you.
Dravawn, Daynee & D'Lerrhn says
Sending our sincerest condolences & hugs to the family. He was my basketball coach in HS. He became a good family friend. Then he was my daughter, Daynee’s, favorite & best preschool teacherv ever (she says). Every time she seen him around, she would run up to him & give him a big hug♡. I’ll miss his random jokes & laughter. Rest well, Andy. My family & I will miss you.
Wayne Leman says
My condolences to Andy’s family. He was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor. I will miss listening to him telling stories in Cheyenne. Andy had such a positive influence on so many people. Nea’eše, hoovehe!
Kathy Widdicombe says
To Ella and family, my heart and prayers are with you during this time and into the future as you find your way without your beloved husband and father. Andy was one of a kind and he will truly be missed by the many lives he touched. Sending love and prayers, Kathy and family
Clyde says
Condolences to the family of Andy. Andy was always good to me. He always ensured that we as Cheyennes were mindful of the fact we are Cheyenne and we remember that in our decisions and to always help one another. #Cheyenne Strong. Rest in peace my Cheyenne brother.
Andrita Harris says
Deepest Sympathy and condolences to Ella & Elkshoulder Family. So sorry to hear of Andy’s passing. Andy was a good friend. Prayers RIP
Sue Parker says
Rest In Peace, Friend.
Amanda Dillard says
Condolences to Ella and Family. Sorry to hear about another school mate gone (Andy). He was a good person and we all enjoyed his company. Prayers and Hugs for you and the kids. RIP my friend.
Lorraine Waters says
Andy had a ready smile and positive interaction with people. He and George Jr used to tease me in a humorous fashion with them laughing hard. Sending my condolences to Andy’s family. Ella, you are a comforting soul. I will be praying for you.
William Collins says
Bill Collins says, I knew Andy through my friendship with his younger brother Chase. I was fortunate to attend a meeting that Andy led a couple of years ago. After that I ran into Andy at two funerals. One of Chase’s son Chance and the other of his mother-in-law. I will remember Andy’s sense of humor, but most I will remember his strong presence. I am truley sorry of his passing. Bill Collins
Bill Parker says
Rest in peace Andy. Thanks for sharing with me some of your positive attitude surrounding some of our shared experience with our health.
Andy’s adjustments at half time in basketball games and especially at tournament time were Legendary!I
Bill Parker
Skeets family says
sorry for your loss. Condolences to Ella and family…thoughts and prayers are sent to you all. From Skeets family from Red Rock NM
Christine Valentine says
I am so sad to learn of Andy’s death. He was a good person, intelligent and a great sense of humor
I send my deepest sympathy to his family.
Patricia Houseman says
Ella and family, so sorry for your loss of Andy. He was a great person. I would have come to the funeral but I was out of town. You are in my prayers
Troy Spang says
He was so worried about me as I went through my transplant and always prayed for me, every chance he got he’d encourage me and tell me to keep fighting. I returned the favor and encouraged him and prayed for him as he got sicker. I will miss Andy, his sense of humor and his intellect , we had many conversations about life and the important things to keep around you. Rest easy My Brother, I will see you soon enough and when we do meet we will catch up over a good cup of coffee. Love and prayers to Ella and the family, the world is missing a good man, we are missing our Brother and Friend.
Devona Lambert says
Condolences Neil & family from Devona, I had the pleasure of visiting with Mr. Elkshoulder court side & watched him coach plenty of times. He was a Great Man, & I’m sure he will be missed. Prayers for you all.