Charles Littleoldman, Homa’eÓhma ‘heonevéste (Medicine Beaver) beloved grandfather, father, healer, spiritual and ceremonial man of the Northern Cheyenne tribe was called home on January 14, 2014.
Charles was born to Fern Littleoldman and Francis Wolfchum on February 28, 1946 along the banks of the Tongue River. He was born in early spring underneath the Medicine Beaver constellation and this is where his name comes from. He grew up in the Birney Community amongst the Suhtai people on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Charles and his sister Mamie were raised by his grandmother Josie Limpy and great-grandfather, Charles Headswift, and their mother Fern. His great-grandfather, Charles, was a Sacred Hat Keeper which then was given to Josie after his passing. He was raised in the traditional Cheyenne way by his family. Charles learned traditional medicine from his grandmother which would later become his life. He attended Birney Day School, Busby, and Chilloco Boarding School in OK. He went AWOL from Chilloco and lived with relatives in Watunga until he found a way to return to the banks of the Tongue River. He married Lenora Red Cloud, from this union three children Charlene, Tina, and Reno Charles were born.
As a young man he struggled with alcoholism, but his faith and belief in the traditional ways helped him overcome this battle. Charles’ powerful belief in the traditional ways of his people was in his heart. During this time Charles and Marcelline began their time together. Through this union, Pascal Sage was born.
“All prayers are good.” He would say. Charles was deeply devoted to prayer and the traditional ways of his people. By this strong and humble faith, Charles strengthened not only his family, but his tribe and anyone who was open to his prayers. He practiced the Catholic faith and was an active member of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Lame Deer, Montana.
Charles was a Headsman of the Kit Fox Society. He was a former Sacred Hat Keeper. He helped numerous people through fasting and Sundance ceremonies. Charles loved to sing and was a member of the Birney Singers, the Tongue River Singers and several other drum groups. He passed down his knowledge and love of singing to his son, Pascal. In passing down songs he taught their meanings and when it was appropriate to sing them. Charles enjoyed going to Powwows where he sang and Gourd Danced with his friends.
Charles believed in encouraging the youth and was involved in various activities including Native American Week, trips to Lake DeSmet, Bear Butte and Cody, WY. He mentored with Second Seasons and was a board member. Also he worked with the young men from Pine Hills as a mentor. He ran sweats with the Prayers Warriors MSP, for healing. He tried his best to help the younger generation by sharing his knowledge about healing ways and ceremonies. He also was a dedicated St. Labre Braves fan and would often attend games and other activities.
He had a great love for all of his children, grandchildren, family and friends. He was a kind, genuine, and modest man. Charles was blessed with a great sense of humor which helped him through struggles in life. He liked to tease, he was hopeful and an uplifting person to be around. The power of healing and prayer that he possessed was deeply respected by his people. In his eyes everyone was equal, no one was above another, and he always helped anyone that asked.
Charles is survived by his wife Marcelline, Charlene and Sam Littlewhiteman, Tony, Selena, Tameka, and Chanelle , Tina and Delano Harris, DeShanda, Lenora, and Bernice Harris, Joseph Morrison, Jr., Pascal, Sarah and Cedar Shoulderblade, Janelle and Brian Jones, Jeremy, Dustin, Loren, Heather, Danica & Natalie, Eric and Brenda Timber, Erica, Kristin, Erin, Justin, & Kia, Stella and Damson Ortega Jr., Michael, Dominic, & Chloe, Thomas “Ivey” and Barbara Timber, Maynard Timber,,Benji , Donovyn, Donalynn , Conan, Cyrell, and Clayton Whiteman, Aunt Dolores and Daniel Fisher, Uncle Wayne and Rosanne Headswift, Aunt Mary Underwood, sisters Helen Louise Yellowrobe and Kathy Foote. Charles had many adopted and extended family that are close to his heart and too numerous to name. Words cannot express how greatly he will be missed by his family, friends, tribe, and all those that knew him. He was more than just a man, he was a part of the spirit of the Cheyenne Tribe.
Traditional Wake will be Friday, January 17, 2014 at 7:00 PM at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish. Funeral Services will be Saturday, January 18, 2014 at 11:00 AM at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish in Lame Deer. Burial will follow in the Birney Cemetery. Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these arrangements and condolences may be sent by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Friday January 17, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Saturday January 18, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Luncheon
Following Graveside Services
Saturday January 18, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Friday January 17, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Saturday January 18, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Luncheon
Following Graveside Services
Saturday January 18, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish
600 Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
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Kathy & Sam Widdicombe says
Maheo opened his arms today for another angel. Thank you for all of your prayers, wisdom & loving kindness over the years. You will be missed more than you can imagine. Our prayers & thoughts are with Marcelline & family. Love, Sam, Kathy & girls.
Porter & Ann Knows His Gun & Family says
Marceline & Family;
Deepest Condolences and Prayers. We lost a great ceremony man and respected Elder of our Tribe. So saddened with not only your loss but ours as the Northern Cheyenne people. May Mr. Charles Little Old Man Rest In Peace and Maheo watch over his family in this time of mourning.
Robert Bragg says
Marceline and family; Charles was one of my teachers along with Beaver. His humility at his love moved ahead of him into the world as a Guide for others to follow. May the grace. Of Maheo touch you and keep you in the days to come. Bob and Tere Bragg and family.
Melissa Whitewolf Royston & Family says
The Family of Charles, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. The Northern Cheyenne’s lost a great prayer warrior, healer and person. My deepest condolences. God Bless.
Shawn NIedge (Pine Hills) says
To Marceline and Family; We at Pine Hills Youth Correctional Facility are so sorry to hear of Charles passing. He was a true inspirational leader to staff and youth at Pine Hills. He touched the lives of many young men while doing sweats and Wellness Days. We will never forget Charles. Rest in Peace.
Corinna says
Saddened to hear of Charles’ passing. He was such a significant person in my and my family’s lives. Thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones. If I could, I would be at the funeral but my presence will be there through my family members that attend. Love to you all.
Mae says
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Charles. He was one of the kindest men I have known, he will be sorely missed by all who knew him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Julie J Eagle says
MY CONDOLENCES TO A VERY SPECIAL MAN’S FAMILY. HE WILL BE MISSED BY MANY. BLESSINGS AND PRAYERS TO YOUR FAMILY.
Denise Swank says
For Marcelline and family: Your loss is ours too, we loved him as much as you do, He was our spiritual guide, our advisor, our comedian, our singer, and our teacher. He will be missed. I am glad I had to the opportunity to know him, he did a lot for my family. I appreciate all that he and you have done. Be strong you all. Marcelline I know that you will be. Your are most definitily a Strong Cheyenne Woman. Love you.
Jack & Kim Knobloch Family says
Marceline and family,
We send our prayers to such wonderful people; Heaven opened its doors to a wonderful warrior. It is a blessing to our family to have had such a wonderful person a part of lives. We have lost a very respected elder, spiritual guide, and teacher from our community, but most of all his teachings to others will carry on. Sending you lots of prayers and love Marceline.
Love you, Kim, Jack, Kylee, Shiloh and Jacob
Christine Valentine says
I am proud to have known Charles for many years and am deeply saddened by his death. He is in my prayers as are his family particularly Marcelline, Paschal, Tina and Charlene.
Love – Chris Valentine
Andrita Harris says
Prayers and Condolences to Marceline and Family. Charles will be missed. He has helped me out, enjoyed listening to him and talking to Charles. Always made me look at things in a different light.
Troy and Lori Killsontop says
Marceline and Family: We are sadden by the loss of Charles and our prayers and Condolences are with you and your family. May the Great Spirit bless and watch over you all in this time of great sadness. Charles was a special man and he will be greatly missed.
Michael and Cindy Burns says
Prayers for Marceline and family. Charles was such an important person to so many people and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him. I pray for guidance for you all during this most difficult of times. Charles was such a big influence in my own life and I will forever be greatful for that.
Helen Schonenbach says
Condolences to all family and friends. Charles was a great influence to many and will be sorely missed.
Pam Kania says
We send our condolences to you Marceline, Paschal and all the family. There aren’t enough words to express Charles’ presence and infuence in our lives. It feels like there there is a huge vacuum now without him being here. I am glad that he is no longer suffering. We will miss him trmendously. Sincerely, Pam and Ken
Carrie Beach says
Marceline,
I am so saddened to hear of Charles passing. He taught me so many things and I am very blessed to have gotten to know him. Both of you helped me so much when my son died and my life is so much fuller because I was able to spend time with both of you. What a gift that his body is now healthy and he is free from any medical issues. The Creator must be overjoyed to have such an amazing man back in his presence. I think of you often.
Smiley and Bobbi Ann Wilson Jr. says
Marceline and family sorry for your loss,you are in our prayers and thoughts wish we could come home and give you a hug. Crystal Lynn was very heart broken to hear that Charles had passed away she looked up to him like a grandfather, and Smiley sends his condolences to the family
David Cowles says
Dear family of Charles: Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your dear loved one. I did not know Charles personally, but the memories I see on the public web site show that he will was greatly loved and will be missed very much. At this sad time I would like to share some comfort from the Bible. Death is an enemy of all mankind, yet when it touches us personally, few of us find the comfort that we search for. And death itself leaves many of us with unanswered questions. However, many have found comfort in God’s Word the Bible. The Bible teaches that in the near future, God is going to swallow death forevever and wipe the tears from all faces. (Isaiah25:8). God also promises to reunite us with our dear loved ones and we will be able live life to the full in peace, happiness and perfect health for everyone. What a wonderful hope and prospect this is . (John 5:28,29; Revelation 21:4 Psalms 37:10,11,29). As you read the above texts in your Bible, may the wonderful hope they give us, along with loving memories, bring you a measure of comfort during this most difficult time. Sincereley: David Cowles
Sharon & Del Dinstel says
I am so sorry for your lose of Charles. I always enjoyed visiting with him at your family gatherings. He was a wonderful, spiritual man. May our prayers comfort you at this time.
Clarice Walksalong says
Marcelline & family
May Maheo give you comfort in Uncle’s passing. He was so proud when we he danced with me at my wedding. He said It was his first time he danced the white man way in years. He said I still know how. That was so special and precious. He was such a good man. May you and your family be comforted by all the prayers that are being said
Littlewolf. says
As I sat with my sister in law Marcelline last night, we talked about my brother and his courage to face his illness. He did not complain or voiced regrets. He remained spiritual and strong! He trusted his son to follow through with what to do and who after he is gone, and it was all done. That is true love between a father and son! I admire the way Charles prepared himself for Ma’heo! I cried and cried wondering what I’m going to do without him! Many continued prayers for his family to be comforted and for them to take care! United we will put Charles to rest and honor him and his family whom he loved so much!
Ambrose,Sr & Clementine Seminole says
Sending our prayers and blessing to the family .
June Persons says
Dear Marceline and family,
My deepest sympathies on Charles’ passing. His absence leaves a big hole in the lives of many. Charles was such a kind and humble man, still helping others even in his illness. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cecilia "Pahavehae"/Pretty Woman Bahr-Thex says
Marceline, Paschal & Family my prayers have been and continue for you all. Charles is a gift to us. His humble genuine caring way will be here always. Maheo be with this Family in their sorrow.
Danetta Fisher says
I am also saddened to hear of Charles’ passing. He was the inspiration to me and my boys, Stef and Todd. When they played basketball and football, he would come and pray with and for the whole team. He gave them each a medicine pouch during this time, which was a very special gift to them. I have shared a photo with you all in remembrance of Charles compassion he had for my mother while they were both in the “swing bed,” where he would roll himself into mom’s room each day after supper, and he and my parents would visit and visit, then he would pray for and with my mom. I shall never forget that. May Creator God Bless you today.
Dan and Carlene Old Elk says
Marceline , you are in our thoughts and prayers. We. Won’t be able to make it to the services. Dan has dialysis on Sat. But wanted to let you know how much Charles’s friendship meant to Dan. Hoping to see you soon. God Bless you and your family.
Carlene
Deb (Moths) Schmeling says
Dear Marcelline and Family,
Just wanted you to know that you are in my prayers. May God wrap his loving and comforting arms around each one of you. Charles will be missed at Pine Hills Youth Correctional Facility.
Deb Schmeling
Bonnie Burns says
Marcelline and Family, A good spiritual leader has left us and he has always been very special to our family. Charles was so very proud of Kyle. He always talked to me about my family. So very glad that I got to go visit with him in Hardin. God Bless you and your family.
Tia Fighting Bear says
My thoughts and prayers to the family….Charles was a very humble man always telling me to be kind to people….he was a very giving man always helping people in need….Charles will always have a special place in my heart…….
Damion Killsback says
Charles Little OldMan has been a critical part of my growth and development as a Northern Cheyenne man. My mother started taking us to him when we were very young. I had the honor of him giving my name to nephew, he always served as a voice of encouragement and support. Before I moved to D.C. he gave my son and I medicine bags filled with prayers and blessings. When I felt like I couldn’t make it out of the reservation, he told me the reservation will always be there when you need it and sent me to tie prayer cloths when I was back for brief visit a few years ago. We have all lost a man whose importance and spiritual knowledge was widely respected. My deepest and most heartfelt prayers and condolences to his family.
Kathy Harris says
When we are blessed with an angel here on earth it is so hard to understand WHY they had to leave …. but after losing my own mom it was comforting to know and believe that there work on earth was complete. And that after the the of mourning is lessened praying that one day you all will feel strong enough to celebrate their life rather than the loss…love and condolences for all the family.
Georgia Ann Burns says
Marcelline and family! I am very saddened by the loss of Charles. You both have been very special to me. He would always make me feel better, by his humor. I always enjoyed being around you both! My prayers to all of you, Paschal, Tina, Charlene and everyone else! I am so sorry I can’t make it down. I always think of how Charles helped me when I lost my kids. My friend, I pray that God will comfort you and show you grace! I Love you my friend!
Jeanne Shipstead says
So sorry to hear of the passing of this Gentle man.
Sarah Comeau says
Marcelline, you and your family are in my prayers. Know that Charles’ spirit is now free of his body. His spirit is with God and will forever be with you. I did not know Charles before I was his nurse, however, I have heard many great things of him. I was taught, as a man gets closer to the end of his life, he goes closer to the spirit world and may even walk between the two. It was a pleasure to get to know you and take care of Charles. As Charles was asleep in the hospital bed he saw that I was taking care of you as well because he heard my prayers for you. Peace be!
William Rowland says
Charles was my friend, he was a very humble man and I respected him deeply for that.
I liked to sit and talk with him when ever I saw him ,he always had that little smile on his face like he was waiting for me to start teasing Marceline.
The sayings that people say that he is in a better place or he is no longer in pain does not relieve our pain of losing such a humble man that has touched so many of the Northern Cheyenne people.
CHARLES WAS MY FRIEND!
Someday we will meet again and play a game of horse shoes…until then R.I.P.
Danielle Arnoux says
Saddened to hear of Charles passing but know that he is most certainly with our Creator now….I had the privilege of sweating with Charles and his wife about 10 years ago….Wendell Lefthand introduced me to them and they welcomed me many a time to pray and sweat the Cheyenne way, which I greatly enjoyed and will never forget! They always had the rocks ready on a wintery Sunday afternoon and welcomed me like family! Aho! It was a spiritual blessing and honor to know you, until we meet again!!
Gary Small says
We will dearly miss this sweet man. We had the honor of recording Charles and the Tongue River Singers in our studio here in Sheridan. Bless you all.
Rennie Whiteman Pena says
it was always good to see Charles and Marcelline, they always had good words and a good laugh. Gonna miss Charles, I had great respect for him, he shown what it was like to be close to the Creator, a man of prayer and great respect. My condolences to the family, I know how hard it is to lose a parent. May God continue to strengthen you all during this time. <3
Reno Charette says
There are very few men with the exceptional qualities that Charles possessed. His passing and the grief it brings to his wife, family, friends, and community will be felt for a very long time. I will miss him at gourd dances. I’ll miss his songs, teasing, prayers, and friendship. I’ll miss his smile and the light his presence brought to Marcelline. I extend my heartfelt condolences to all of Charles family and community. May we all benefit from his example of faith, prayer, and being good to one another.
Julie J Eagle says
My prayers and condolences to the family for Charles, missed by many but never forgotten. R.I.P, Charles Littleoldman.
Marilyn Johnson says
Marcelline and family, I was saddened to learn of Charles’ passing. He was so generous sharing his knowledge of traditional Cheyenne ways, and he demonstrated that one could live in a modern world, while respecting the traditional ways. I remember him offering prayers at family gatherings and community events. I’m sure he will continue to be a Prayer Warrior for the Cheyenne people. God Bless.
Roger "Comes-in-Sight" Lingenfelter says
Charles, I thank you for the life that I now enjoy. Your help and guidance led me through difficult times and you gave of yourself freely. Your spirit and prayers will carry on for all time through myself and others. As what we do from the moment we met you and forward on, is changed forever. I pray to the Creator that he can help me to follow your example in dealing with life and with others. The Creator has taken you to him now, to be with him and those that love you and have gone on before you. You are now with them. You have shed the confines of the body that has challenged you all these years, and your being may now match your great spirit. Ha Ho Brother, Mentor, Instrument of our Creator. You have lifted me forever.
Maggie and Sego says
We had the pleasure of meeting Charles 3 years ago at our Grandkids Naming Ceramony for Kieran and Brielle SpottedWolf ..
Charles gave the children their Native names . During the ceremony he spoke about the bringing Together of two different cultures(Native/Hispanic)
We celebrated the naming of Kiean and Brielle and the joining of us all….
May you be at Peace Charles Little Oldman ,and a be with Maheo in your Journey home….
Our Condolences to the Family of Charles Little Olaman may you find Peace in your Hearts that Charles is with Maheo on his final Journey…
Maggie & Sego. 🙂
Jim & Rita Alderman & Family says
Dear Marceline & Family, our hearts and prayers are with you during this time of Loss and our prayers of gratitude to God for blessing us with a man with such love, spirituality, wisdom, who encompassed the true Heart of the Northern Cheyenne People in the traditions he upheld and passed on, the many prayers he offered for so many, and the example of how he lived in leading so many to follow the Spiritual path. Our whole tribe,community, and parish is shaken by Charles’ passing and it will take prayers and time to recover- especially the dear lady who was always at his side, Marceline. Love Jim&Rita
Ruth Costilla & Family says
Marceline & Family Members, I am so sorry to hear about your great loss. Only god can give you comfort and I will keep you all in my prayer every night. He was a very humble man and a great leader and I pray that God will give you guidance and strength everyday.
Cindy Stanton says
Marcelline & family,
I am so saddened by the loss of Charles. I of course remember him from back in my days working at Pine Hills many years ago, to my days at the bank and V-1 in Ashland. He was as kind and wise as my own father & grandfathers were. And that smile and twinkle in his eyes could make you happy for days. Charles is a person who will truly be missed. I admired his traditional ways immensely and his advice was always spot on. His joy radiated out like a brilliant sun. I’m sorry I was unable to see him last week in the hospital as I had planned. I have tears of sadness for this immense loss and tears of joy for having known Charles. Peace be with you all.
Dolores Shoulderblade and Family says
Marcelline, Words cannot express the deep loss we feel of Charles’ passing. His strong beliefs in the traditional ways and his spirituality had always been his strong points. He was a very humble and caring person. My little family and I will deeply miss him as we looked to him for guidance many times. You are a strong caring wife for being there for him when he needed you the most. May the good Lord keep you in his arms as you walk your path alone until you meet him again. We love you very much.
Daniel & Lillian Big Man says
We were saddened to hear of Charles’ passing. I’m mostly glad that we got to see him smile and visit with him one last time. We will miss him immensely, he was a great teacher of our Cheyenne ways and traditions. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with your family at this most difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.
Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
Marcelene and all the family, the loss of such a wonderful person is felt by so many. The love and respect did not only come from the Cheyenne people, but from the rest of us that knew him. He always seemed to have a smile and both him and Marcelene were so kind to us. We know that we will see him again when it is our time to be called home. We were truly blessed knowing such a wonderful man. You all will be kept in our prayers and may God bless all of your family. We love you,
Mary and Jolyn Dillon
Michael & Kristi Speelman says
Dose Ho wome , Charles. I’m very proud to have known you and be a part of your life.
Marcelene, and Family we will miss him dearly you are all in our Prayers during these hard times.
Ha Ho !
Ryan Parker says
Charles was my neighbor for 19 years near White Bull south of Lame Deer. As the Sacred Hat Keeper he was always busy but was always quick to smile and say a kind word. I know I speak for Bill, Sue, Greg and Paige when I say Charles was truly a kind and honorable man and a friend. My condolences to Marcelline, Pascal, Clayton and the entire family.
DiTonno Family says
Dear Marcelline and Family: Our thoughts, prayers, and love is with you all. Words cannot express how thankful we are for your and Charles’ presents in our lives. We are grateful for all of the time and prayers that your family has imparted over the years.
God bless. Joey, Magen, Rayne & Addyson
Debbie Russell and family says
Marcelline and family, my deepest condolences on the loss of Charles. May Creator give you guys strength tomorrow as we lay him to rest. He was a spiritual warrior for all teaching and touching each of our spirits through his way of life. Now he is our spiritual guide in the spirit world. May his spiritual leadership live on thru the Northern Cheyenne Nation. *Peace*
Susan Braine says
Marcelline & family ~ my deepest condolences and love. RIP Charles and I hope your journey is filled with pure love and peace! Help us to direct our prayers to our Creator whenever you hear us praying.
Eleanor Bearchum Parker says
Marceline & family, my heart goes out to you and prayers to help during this sad time.
Dean, Julia& Dana'e Blackwolf says
Marcellline, Stella, Janelle& Pascal~very sorry about Charles passing. He was great encouragement to my family, He would always greeted us w/handshake& a smile. The first question he would ask was how’s my boy? (Kade Jordan) We will miss him greatly. Praying for your family.