Francis Elmer “Gus” Harris, Indian name Birds Trail, was born September 01, 1929 to Bryan Harris Sr. and Ruth Medicinebird. He passed over the other side camp on June 16, 2014.
He married Ataloa “Addie” Hogan on September 12th, 1952.
Gus was a member of the Kit Fox Society and a faithful member of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Lame Deer, Montana. No matter how busy his day was, he always made time to read his bible – he loved the Lord. He leaves behind a legacy of faith and commitment for his children and grandchildren to follow. Gus was a devoted husband to his darling Addie. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2012.
Gus left school during 9th grade to help his dad and family. He worked on ranches along Rosebud for the Baileys, Egans, and Smalls. When Korean War broke out he enlisted in the US Air Force in 1950–1954. He attained status of Staff Sergeant. He was honorably discharged in 1954.
Gus was an area rancher. A rodeo cowboy who participated in Canada, Montana, Wyoming, North and South Dakota. In his younger years he rode bareback, saddle bronc and occasionally bulls. Gus was a tough ole cowboy on the outside, if he liked you he would do anything for you; he had a heart of gold. Gus and Addie loved to attend family celebrations and community functions to visit their grandchildren and friends. They were both very proud of their children and grandchildren’s achievements and hardly missed any activities they participated in.
In 1985, one of Gus’s highlights was participating in the National Old Timers Rodeo Association in Amarillo, Texas with partner Bernadine “Bigfish” Fisher. During his rodeo days he calf and team roped and steer wrestled. He was honored to team up with his brother, the late Chuck Harris in team roping and steer wrestling; he was very proud to represent the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. He was an avid PBR fan and loved raising cattle and horses throughout his life.
Gus worked as a Foreman for the BIA roads in Crow Agency, Montana for many years. He was a Maintenance Man for I.H.S. for 15 years and a Heavy Equipment Operator at WECO for five years. Retirement didn’t sit well with Gus, so he went back to work as a Tribal Councilman for two terms.
Survivors include two daughters, Kathy Harris and Lori Onebear, Lame Deer, three sons: Lynn (Roberta) Harris, Colstrip, Ryne (Barbara) Harris, Lame Deer, Joel (Vicky) Harris, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and one adopted son, he took as his own, Joe (Charlene) Alden, Lame Deer, Montana. Special niece, Ataloa Ruth (Ron) Burman, Lame Deer, Montana. One brother, Kenneth (Dorothy) Harris, Colstrip, one sister, Venita (Connie) Brien, Ashland, Montana. 14 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.
Gus is preceded in death by his loving wife, parents and brothers: Carl Harris, Chuck Harris, Gilbert Harris, Dale Harris, Bryan Harris, Jr.; Sister Marlene Anderson; Adopted son Donnie Bill Pease.
A Traditional Wake will be 7:00 p.m., Thursday, June 19, 2014 at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish, in Lame Deer, Montana.
A funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 20, 2014 at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Parish in Lame Deer, Montana.
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is assisting the family with these arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 pm to Midnight
Thursday June 19, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Cathoilc Church
Cheyenne Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Mass of Christian Burial
11:00 AM
Friday June 20, 2014
Blessed Sacrament Cathoilc Church
Cheyyene Ave
Lame Deer, MT 59043
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Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
Thinking of all of you during this very sad time. I want to say how I thought that Gus was such a kind man. During my time at Lame Deer I had a horse that Gus had previously. I loved the horse so we had lots of common conversation. I know he was faithful to the Blessed Sacrament church in Lame Deer and it was people like him that made me love Lame Deer. He loved the Lord and his family; and it was obvious that people loved him too. We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers.
Mary and Jolyn Dillon
Jack and Carol says
We were shocked to hear about Gus. We’d had seen him at Mass on Sunday as usual so it was hard to take in. We are so sorry for the family. He and Jack’s acquaintance goes back many years. He and Jack were bunk house mates back in their young days.
Lynette Spang says
Prayers to the Harris family for your loss you are all in my thoughts and prayers!
Wilmer & Erma Spang says
Sending hugs and prayers for the family during this time of loss.
Melissa Whitewolf Royston & Family says
Sending prayers to the Harris family, so sorry to hear of your loss.
Debbi Beartusk Dove says
Gus was a faithful member of Blessed Sacrament, a man who obviously loved his wife Ataloa (miss her) and his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His presence will be missed. Sending prayers up for Kathy, Lori and the boys. You had wonderful parents who have so positively influenced your lives – beautiful family!
Northern Cheyenne Court Staff says
Condolences and prayers to Coty Realbird and the rest of the Harris family from the Northern Cheyenne Court Staff. Your in our prayers….
Roxie and Calvin Wilson says
Sorry to hear of Gus’ s passing. Special hugs and kisses to Tempe Faith, Lori, Tenaya and family. Our hearts go out to you and we send prayers for all of you. Sorry for the loss of your loved one. Gus was a very knowledgeable man of horses, people and history.
Gail Small says
Prayers & love to the family of Gus and Ataloa. Your Dad was one of the last of the old-time Tribal Councilmen who lived the values of our Tribe…one who looked out for the people without any resentment or personal enrichment. He used to say that we have to run the Tribal Govt. like a business. I worked with him on various tribal committees and on Council, and I learned from his sincere approach to leadership. He was truly a family man and often talked about how important it was for parents to raise their children. Having recently lost my mother, I can relate to how hard a time this is for all of you. It is also a loss for our whole Tribe when we lose family leaders, like your Dad, because they provide stability for our whole Reservation. Know that you are all in our prayers. Gail Small
Diana and Robert McLean says
Addie and Gus matched each other. They were both kind, considerate and loving to everyone they met. They were married for over 50+ years, and that is a marriage made of love from God. Prayers for all of the Harris family.
Rennie Whiteman Pena says
God is building His army & Gus has joined the mighty Army of God, which is a great honor! Though you walk thru the valley of the shadow of death thou shalt fear no evil for thou art with me, thy rod & thy staff they comfort me. You are going to a city where there is no more weeping nor crying where there is no pain! I see a city called the New Jerusalem. May God bring you comfort & strength during this time & may you rejoice knowing to be absent from the body is to be present with The Lord! Prayers to you all
Dolores Shoulderblade and Family says
For Gus’s family,
You were all very blessed to have him this long, he was a an honorable humble man. May the Angels carry him upon their wing, where the streets are made of gold and the roses never fade. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Dolores Shoulderblade and family
Dolores Shoulderblade and Family says
For Gus’s family,
You were all very blessed to have him this long, he was an honorable humble man. May the Angels carry him upon their wings, where the streets are made of gold and the roses never fade. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Dolores Shoulderblade and family
Carrie Small says
Prayers for the Family. Rest in Peace, Gus.
Willow says
Dearest Lori & Families:
My Condolences to you and all your Families and ” May the lord bring you all peace and comfort” at this time. Praying for you all.
Kermit and Michelle Spang says
Our condolencest to the Harris Family, Gus was a very great man!
Albert LaRance jr. says
God Bless! Harris Family!
Christine and Aljo StrangeOwl says
So sorry Lori and Family, we have good memories of your parents seeing and hearing the love they had from their children all the get together’s at your house across the street Prayers for the whole family.
Renecia (harris) youngbull says
I love my grandpa gus he was the best gpa anyone could have. I love my aunties kathy,lori,and my uncles and all my many cousins. I love u all with all my heart.
William Rowland says
So sorry to here of Gus’s passing. My prayers are with him so that he may have a safe journey to the other side…People will miss this old cowboy as will I…Prayers for Kathy, Lori,Lynn,Joey and Ryne…Rest in peace! Gus…
JOHN & JULIE MALDONADO AND FAMILY says
Prayers and condolences to the family of Gus.
clementine seminole says
Condolences to the children,grandchildren, great grandchildren may ma ‘heo be with you all at this time of need and the ceremony starts today here in oklahoma we will be prayering for the family ‘s.
ROBERTA H ROTH says
Sorry to hear of Gus’s passing. Thoughts and prayers to all of Gus’s family.
F.B. Farr says
Our parents held your Mom & Dad in high esteem. As we grew up, we were made aware that they were pillars and to be respected. Your family is in our prayers. Be encouraged that the fruit of their lives are the foundation of your life. In your decisions, they can be seen.
Ann & Porter Knows His Gun says
Condolences to the family, and my dear friend Lori. Know you dad is with your mom where they both Rest in Peace. Prayers & ((hugs))
Bonnie and Dennis Bear Don't Walk says
Prayers to Gus and Ataloa’s family. Thinking of you as you grieve your loss- God Bless.
Georgia L Wilson & Joshua says
this is where the Cowboy rides away prayers to the family
Ryan Parker says
My condolences to the Harris family. I used to love going over to Gus and Ataloa’s house when I would visit Lynn and Roberta’s old place to play with Aaron, Rhiannon and their cousin Nolan. Gus was such a kind and generous guy, and good to his grandchildren. He will be missed!
June Persons says
My sincere condolences on your family’s loss. Sending you prayers of peace and healing. Much love, June
Lloyd and Renee Harris says
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believe in him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16
Sending our thoughts and prayers…
Rest in peace… Uncle Gus.
Lloyd and Renee
Beth Westwood Mehling says
It’s so hard to say good bye to your dad. He will live forever in your hearts. I truly admired both of your parents and want you to know my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
God Bless,
Beth Mehling
Denise Swank says
Sorry for your loss and so close to losing your loving mom, grandma, I know that they are together now and rejoicing their togethernes. Celebrate their love as you take him to his resting place, you are all in my prayers.
George Birtic says
Sorry to hear of your loss. He was a great man……….
Charles and Donna Bearcomesout says
Condolences to the Harris family
Kathleen Beartusk says
Kathy, Lori and boys – please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Your dad was a great man whom many looked up to. I know you how much you loved him.
Daniel & Lillian Big Man says
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Harris family during this difficult and trying time. Know in your hearts that Gus’ real place was with his beloved wife Ataloa. Lori, I’m so sorry that both your parents are gone but they will be with you forever, in your heart. You all have so many fond memories of your parents and a legacy of faith and love. If there is anything you need, I’m only a phone call away. God bless you and be with you all.
Danetta Fisher says
I am so very sorry to hear of your dear dad’s passing. May Maheo bless you today.
Jim and Rae Peppers says
Gus was one of a kind and we were proud to know him.
Reno Charette says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I hope that you find PEACE and comfort in the love of your friends and family. You are in my prayers.
J Johnson says
My sincere condolences to the family of Francis Elmer “Gus” Harris – It was never the Creator’s purpose for mankind to suffer (Romans 5:12). In the Bible death is called an “enemy” (1 Corinthians 15:26). May God give you peace through his promise to comfort us (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). I hope that you are consoled by Bible promises of a hopeful future (John 17:3).
Mike Horn-Chief Strong Leader. says
My Condolences to the Francis “Gus” Harris family. I rarely knew Gus although I heard many good stories from his brother Chuck about him. They were good stories.
And sorry to hear about Chuck too. He was a friend who made me a “Professional Wrestling” buckle with my wrestling name “Chief Strong Leader” on it. I proudly wore it in the Wrestling Ring many times.
I also am a Professional Musician and wore Chuck’s buckle many times when I played music throughout the country. I once crossed paths with George Strait -the famous country singer and musician and he saw Chuck’s buckle he made for me and wanted one. Unfortunately Chuck passed beforehand. I’ve actually had been away from home for over 50 years.