Jay Dale Old Mouse, Pėhévena’hāne (“Good Killer”) began his journey across the Milky Way to Séáne, the “Happy Hunting Grounds” on September 25, 2020. J.D. was born on October 9, 1966 to Verna (Glenmore) and Roger Old Mouse in Dickinson, North Dakota, under a rock as he would say. Though J.D. was a proud member of the Mandan Hidatsa and Arikara Nation of North Dakota, he was also Northern Cheyenne and proud of his Cheyenne heritage. He lived most of his life on the Northern Cheyenne reservation and resided with his wife, Amy and his boys in the family home in Busby, Montana. J.D. was a member of the Crazy Dog Society, a Northern Cheyenne Traditional Military Society, and was seated as a headsman in 2010 after the death of his father.
J.D. graduated from Colstrip High School in May 1984. Where he held the longest field goal 43-yard kick on record. After graduation, he attended Chief Dull Knife College, where he studied carpentry. He graduated in 1986 with his Carpentry Certificate and an Applied Science Degree
J.D. had many jobs in his lifetime. He was employed by Stennerson’s Auto and Body Repair, Cady’s Gas Station, Northern Cheyenne Housing Authority, Charging Horse Casino and started the first Northern Cheyenne Lube Center in Lame Deer. He also worked as the Transportation Director for Lame Deer Schools. He coached football for Lame Deer and Busby High Schools. He was proud of his teams that made it to the playoffs and J.D. was picked to coach a six-man all-star football team. For the past ten years, he was employed at Colstrip Schools as the Home School Liaison. J.D. was an advocate and voice for youth. He traveled the state of Montana to provide cultural activities for at-risk youth.
J.D. was blessed with many gifts from Creator; he was an accomplished musician, flute maker, and announcer. JD never had formal music training but could play any instrument put in front of him. He could hear a song, sit at his piano, and play that song back for all to enjoy. He loved to sing and would often “bust out” his favorite songs!
J.D. received the flute making tradition from his grandfather, Blackbear. One day his grandfather asked him if he wanted to learn how to make the flute. J.D. said Yes and with that acceptance, he was accepting the responsibility that comes with that honor, the continuation of creating them as he was taught by his grandfather, and to teach others by sharing the history and purpose. J.D. played and performed on numerous occasions, sending blessings, love and healing through the music. It was his gift to share with all those that requested his assistance. It is called a “courting” flute by name but brought much more. In an interview, he stated, “what the flute means to me is what the church means to other people”.
He also had the gift of “gab” which was evident as a little boy. He took that gift and became a professional announcer, announcing at pow-wows, sporting events and public service events. He was an avid fan of the Colstrip Fillies/Colts and the Dallas Cowboys! His booming voice could be heard announcing each year at the home football and basketball games and at tournaments. During professional football season whether you wanted to hear it or not, you would hear “HOW ABOUT THOSE COWBOYS!!!!”
J.D. loved horses and rode often before his health declined. When he could no longer ride, he continued to acquire horses. He kept his favorite, Good Eagle Boy, close to home. He also loved old cars and restoring them, his first was a big Cadillac, fondly named “Madea”. His latest was his pride and joy, War Pony, which he took to car shows and was awarded People’s Choice Award as well as Top 5 Cars of 2019.
J.D. was a ceremony man and he lived his life accordingly. He believed in the power of prayer and the first to lend a helping hand for anyone in need. He treated everyone that he crossed paths with respect, kindness and generosity. If you were one of the lucky ones, you knew to expect teasing and to be called out while he was announcing. He often gave shout outs, before shout outs were popular, while announcing. This was J.D.’s way of saying he cared about you and was happy you were part of his life.
J.D. acquired the right as a Camp Crier for the Northern Cheyenne people. He earned this right from his participation in traditional ceremonies. This gave him the traditional right to share public information at gatherings and ceremonies. He was often called to speak for families honoring loved ones.
J.D. loved his family very much. He met and married the love of his life, Amy Stewart, on October 28, 1995. He was proud of “his boys” and often said he loved each one of them by name…Shontae, David, Jonathan and Trevor. He was a proud grandpa and looked forward to FaceTime-ing with his grandson, Chancellor. His family was his life and he lived every day for them. He was especially proud of all those that served in the military, especially his father and nephew.
J.D. is preceded in death by his parents, Verna and Roger Old Mouse. Grandparents: Josephine and Douglas Glenmore, Lee Old Mouse and Christine Jacobs, and Evan and Gertrude Burr; Aunt: Dorothy Glenmore; Uncle: Ronald Glenmore; Brothers: Joe Alden Jr., CPL Vydel Yellowrobe; Sister: Dawnette Rose Glenmore; Nephew: Dane Ryan Fisher Sr.; Adoptive parents: H. Carl and Donna Udesen, and all his Burr family that preceded him.
He is survived by his wife, Amy, and sons: Shontae, Jonathon and Trevor Old Mouse, of the family home, David and grandson, Chancellor Old Mouse of Havasupai, Arizona; Grandmother: Jennie Parker; Grandfather: Emmett Stands in Timber; Uncle: Floyd “Bucky” (Charlene) Glenmore, Larry (Rita) Burr, and Tracey Burr; Aunts: Rhoda Glenmore, Clarice Big Back and Debbie Wilson; Brothers: Shawn (Shawntay) Old Mouse, Roger Old Mouse, Jay Fox, Duane (Shawna) Swank, David Swank, Dale (Eva) Glenmore, Tyson (Johnita) Fox, Milen and Shannon Glenmore; Sisters: Lisa (Gary) Old Mouse, Tina Karatti, Henri (OT) Thompson, CJ Yellowrobe, Denise (Frank) Swank, Lasha Fox, Shanda and Mona Glenmore; God Children: Tanisha Littlewhiteman, Kira and Sophina Stewart. J.D. is survived by numerous nephews and nieces who all held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by Jaydel Little Axe and Justin Helvik who carry his Cheyenne name. Adoptive parents: Sandy and Zane Spang; Adoptive Brothers: John Justice, Danny Carlson, OT Thompson, Randy Stennerson and Joey Traywick; Special Friends: Dan Schmidt, Harry Chef, Wayne Dagel, “Tarzan” White Hip and Haisley McMakin; North Dakota Family: aunt, Debra (Jim Wilson); uncles, Evan (Joy) Burr Jr., Larry (Rita) Burr Sr., Lonnie Burr, Tracy Gilda; sister, Jodi Fox-Altringer.
We would like to thank the St. Vincent’s ICU team, doctors and nurses that took great care of J.D., especially Joey and all those that offered prayer for J.D. and family.
J.D.’s extended families included: Bigback, Baker, Seminole, Stands in Timber, Parker, Spotted Wolf, Eastman, Sioux, Spang, Onebear, Wolfname, Burr, Jacobs, Standish, Ducheneaux, Youngbear, Fox, Horn, Littlewolf, Waters, Spotted Elk, Evans, Eaglefeathers, Brady, Sooktis, Clubfoot, Woodenlegs, Spear, Whitedirt and families across the country.
We are a large family; we apologize if we failed to mention your family name.
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Monday September 28, 2020
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, MT 59327
Traditional Wake
5:00 p.m.
Monday September 28, 2020
Old Mouse Home
27426 Highway 212 between mile marker 27 & 28
Busby, MT
Graveside Service
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday September 29, 2020
Old Mouse Cemetery
2746 Highway 212 between mile marker 27 & 28
Busby, MT
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Monday September 28, 2020
Stevenson & Son's Funeral Home
245 Westwind Lane
Forsyth, MT 59327
Traditional Wake
5:00 p.m.
Monday September 28, 2020
Old Mouse Home
27426 Highway 212 between mile marker 27 & 28
Busby, MT
Graveside Service
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday September 29, 2020
Old Mouse Cemetery
2746 Highway 212 between mile marker 27 & 28
Busby, MT
Share
Mike & Paula Childers says
Dear Amy and boys, we send you heartfelt sympathy. We are very saddened by the news of JD’s passing. We were just talking a few days ago about not seeing him lately and Mike said he needed to call him. We will miss his stories, his flute playing, and we will simply miss him. “May the stars carry your sadness away, May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, May hope forever wipe away your tears, and, above all, may silence make you strong.” —Chief Dan George
Duane and Sue Allred says
It is with much sadness that we offer our condolences to all of JD’s family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this time. JD was always very thoughtful of our family and never missed a chance to catch up on family events. He will be missed by all those who know him.
Bonnie Bigback says
May beautiful memories and the gentle sounds of his music abound with us all. It is a great loss to us who live here for there is now a void which will be difficult to fill. I pray you all will be strengthend and comforted knowing we share with you in your sorrow.
Shelly Holum says
Sending prayers to all of JD’s family…. He was a great man, and will be greatly missed… May all of the memories help you through this difficult time.
Donna McCulloch says
I was deeply saddened to hear of JD’s passing . I will remember his stories, his beautiful flutes and music. He was a kind man whom I admired while working for Colstrip School District. May your memories of JD help you through these difficult days ahead. You are in my prayers.
Keith Breckenridge says
JD was a good guy always had a good time bowling against him
George & Jan Simmons says
JD will be sorely missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Travel well my friend. Prayers to family and friends, think of all those good times.
Sharon Limberhand says
When I think of JD, I always smile. Such a special man! My condolences to his family and all the others who were touched in some way by him. Rest In Peace, JD.
Clarice Baker Big Back says
My heart is heavy. We love JD. Our prayers and condolences to Amy and family. He was a truly beautiful person. I will miss him. He helped me through the pain of Eugene’s passing. He told me on June 1 one year after Eugene left. Do not cry so much. You have to live on now. Eugene would not want that. Rest In Peace my dear nephew.
Jack Fleming says
J.D. and his gifts of friendship and flute music and flute making will be missed. He was a true gentleman
Brenda - Patrick Menahan & Family says
Amy – Shontae – Jonathan – Trevor we are truly sorry to hear of JDs passing. What a wonderful caring compassionate man he was. We are honored to have gotten to know him. Sending prayers your way.
Williamette Rising Sun says
My deepest condolences to JD’s family and friends…🧡💙
Andrita Harris says
Deepest Sympathy and Condolences to JD’s Family. Prayers RIP my friend. Remembering our HS days fun times at Colstrip High.
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
TO THE FAMILY OF JD OLDMOUSE, THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR MOST SINCERE CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOSS OF A BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Randy Durr says
The death of any former student is tragic. I remember Jay for his quick wit and humor. Rest easy young man. You will be missed.
Rhoda Glenmore says
The traditional wake is at the Oldmouse home in Busby Mt. By MM 28. Thank you.
George Birtic says
I was so shocked to hear of J. D. s passing. I had so much respect for him. He was a former student of mine. He was such an outstanding person in so many ways. I always enjoyed his flute playing and his pow wow announcing. This happened way to early. He will be missed. He was always the best of the best. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Lisa, And all the family. What a great person. What a great role model he was for young people. Rest In Peace J. D. We will always remember you and love you.
Philip, Kathy, Ruth, Dale, and Harvey says
We are all saddened by JD’s passing. He is a great role model who will be missed! You are all in our prayers.
Aster Berhane says
My Sympathy for the J.D Old Mouse family. God be with you in this difficult time
Chad & Kelly Potts says
Amy and family – we send our deepest condolences during this time. It was a pleasure getting to know JD, his passion for his music and his craft, and good conversation. We enjoyed Sunday league bowling with him, it was always a fun time. Our thoughts are with you and the rest of your family during this difficult time. Aloha
Doug and Debbie Skiles says
Amy and family, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of JD. We will never forget his flute making craftsmanship and beautiful playing of the flute. He had good things to say and was always making jokes. he will be missed. He was good for our Colstrip Schools. Love, Hugs and Prayers!
Bobbi says
So sorry for your loss. He was a great man and will be missed by many. Prayers for the family friends and communities who all fell the loss of this amazing man!
Tom & Robin Shahan says
Our prayers go out to the old mouse family! There will never be another announcer at the basketball games that could get people to play popcorn bingo like JD did!
Cathy and John Frank says
Our deepest condolences to the Old Mouse family. JD will be immensely missed in our communities. He had such a huge personality.
Deb Peters says
JD’s family has been in my thoughts ever since I heard the sad news. I knew JD in many different roles over the years – as a parent when Trevor was in my class, as a talented artist when he gave presentations at the school, and as a coworker when he became home-school coordinator, In every role he exuded caring, compassion, and humor. He will be greatly missed by many, many people. Wishing solace to you all at this time and into the future.
Patty and Russ Dunn says
JD will be greatly missed. Such a talented, creative man with the best sense of humor. Amy and family your are in our prayers. Let’s all go get a “little sumpin sumpin” at the concession stand. Love that!
Kristy Torgerson says
To Amy and family, we are so saddened by the loss of JD! He was such a kind soul! So many great memories of working with him and hearing him announce so many games! He will be greatly missed! Our thought and prayers are with you all!
Kristy and Brian Torgerson
Alicia O’Toole says
Our deepest sympathy for the Oldmouse family. I’ve had the pleasure of going to high school with JD, teaching his son Trevor, and being a coworker with him for many years. His sense of humor, story telling and advice giving was truly amazing and was always welcomed. He was always willing to go the extra mile for students and wanted the best for all students. JD will be missed.
Laurie and Bill Neumiller says
Deepest condolences to JD’s family – he was such a positive presence wherever he was. I knew him as a supportive father when I taught Trevor, a valued and trusted co- worker, the best announcer at events, a role model to my students, and just an all around good guy. Prayers for comfort for his loved ones.
Irene Nelson says
JD touched the lives of so many. I was honored to work with him for years. His knowledge, musical talent, flute making skills and love for people made him stand out. I learned so much about the Northern Cheyenne history and culture from JD. JD had the best sense of humor yet could draw me into a serious conversation and together we would problem solve. I was blessed to have JD as a friend. May God’s peace comfort his family. May we all care about and help others like JD did.
Mark Ator and family says
I thought of JD today as I watched our beloved Cowboys. It was always something we discussed-usually we were both frustrated. Condolences to all family and friends. I could never thank JD enough for the help he provided me as an AD and Principal of Colstrip High School. He will always be remembered as the “voice of the 3B District Basketball Tourney”. JD was a tremendous asset for the school district and a tremendous advocate for the youth of both Colstrip High School and the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of JD’s family.
Mary Dillon says
I am so very sorry to hear this. Your family will be in my prayers. I have good memories of him. I have one of his flutes that I treasure. We will see our loved ones again.
Mary Dillon 🙏🏼
Chance & Hannah Wilson says
Thank you Amy and boys for sharing your husband/dad with all of us. We all lost one of the great men from our little corner of the world. The land is a little gloomier without his light.
Many prayers, happy hunting JD.
Jill L Myers says
JD was a special man who positively impacted many people. I can hear his voice saying, “All you good people….” Praying for comfort for his family.
Doug & Jan Gaskill says
Our hearts & thoughts go to JD’s family. We have so many great memories of JD. He had so many great stories just like his dad. I loved chatting with him at CHS. He was the voice of the Colts & Fillies. JD was loved & revered by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. Fly high JD❤
Cheri DeCock says
Amy & boys, we are so heartbroken with the loss of JD! He was an amazing and talented man. We have many fond memories of working with him at CPS an announced various events. He will be deeply missed! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all!
sharon cope says
Amy and boys, I am so sorry for your loss. JD was an amazing man and I will cherish the CD I have. His flute playing was beautiful.
Prayers to all the family. Sharon
Mona Glenmore says
From the Wyoming Glenmore Sisters, Nieces, & Granddaughters: (Mona & Chaleigha Glenmore), Janessa Glenmore, (Shanda Glenmore, Calley Valdez, Rai’el Valdez, & Chaunte Redman), (Chanice & Aiyah Glenmore, Tataiyana & Ciara Gambler), and (Quannah Glenmore & Ayannah C’Hair), With our deepest sympathy & prayers for our Montana Glenmore Family. Maheo watch over and bless Amy & Family, my Dad Bucky Glenmore , & Aunt Rhoda Glenmore as they mourn the loss of a beloved family member, JD. RIP in peace brother.
Dan and Laura Schmidt says
Old Mouse family- you are in our thoughts and have been for the last few weeks. Jay D is, and always will be, a friend. Journey well, my brother, into the next. Your life lessons, flute playing, generosity, and family are the gifts you have left behind for us to remember. Mostly, I will miss the phone calls we would share these past years.
Our deepest sympathy and prayers for all of you. Well done, Jay D, for touching so many lives in the most positive way. Your gifts will continue to give. Blessings and love to the Old Mouse family.
Shirl Robinson says
Such a nice and humble young man. Always had a smile for everyone. God bless the family with comfort and peace.
Paul “Sam” Burr says
My deepest sympathies for JD’s family. I will cherish all the memories I have of spending an entire summer vacation with JD, Uncle Roger, Auntie Verna, Lisa & Shawn in Lame Deer when we were growing up. Rest easy my brother, and give your dad and mom hugs for me.
Gary, julie, Brittney, Remington says
Amy & boys. We are sorry for your loss. JD was an amazing man and I am glad I had the opportunity to coach with him and we could call him friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Gilbert and Vangie Solis says
Condolences to The Family of JD. Was very hard hearing about JD crossing over to The Other Camp. Gilbert said, “I am going to Miss Him when he would acknowledge me every time We seen him. Especially when he would say, Solis, Solis, Solis.” Rest In Peace and Enjoy Your Family that are there to Greet you. See you again my Friend. Gilbert and Vangie Solis
Vickie Gunderson says
Amy and all of JD’s family, I’m so sorry about JD’s passing. I enjoyed working with him in the Admin office, when he assumed his Dad’s position at the school. I still have the Bobcat beaded key chain he gave me when I retired. Rest in peace JD.
Judy Hayworth says
I fondly remember the times of visiting with JD . My love and prayers are with all of JD’s family. Judy Hayworth
Linda Miars says
Amy and family,
My heart aches for you at this difficult time. I always enjoyed my conversations with JD at work. He was an inspiration to all that knew him. I know he will be looking down on us all and watching over you and your family. Cherish all your memories and let them live on through all of you.
Russ Cournoyer says
So sorry to hear of JDs passing. I knew him in high school and would see him at a lot of the public events back in the 80s. My parents who still live in the area always spoke of JD. A great man who contributed more than his share to the area and the Cheyenne people. Journey well kola. Aho.
Dinny and Cindy Bennett says
Amy, Shontae, Jonathon and Trevor, we are sorry to hear of JD’s passing. One of my fondest memories is when JD would visit me in my office at the MS. Rich Lewis, another Colstrip teacher, made me a flute before he passed away and I kept it in my office. JD would always take the flute and ask if he could play it. He would play a song and then put it back…he did this every time he visited. JD is the only one who has played that flute. Rest in peace JD and God Bless your family.
Norma Fisher says
Condolence to Of JDOLDMOUSE family Prayers are being Sent Your Way, God bless each and everyone of you I will continue praying for the family love you your sister Norma Fisher
Christine Valentine says
I am so sad to hear of Jay’s passing. He was a very talented flute player and a kind young man. I send my condolences to verna , Amy and all his family.
Meredith McConnell & Julie Elkshoulder says
Our family is deeply saddened by the loss of JD, my cousin and my mom Julie’s Nephew. She wanted me too let you know she felt so bad she was unable to attend his funeral but we were with my dad Leonard who was in the hospital at the time. Little did we know we would lose him at that time. She wanted to express her condolences & you are all in our prayers! Thank you for bringing the paperware, cups & bowls up the other night. We appreciate it. God Bless.
Bill Light says
I just learned today of the passing of my brother in music J.D.Oldmouse. I only had the great pleasure of playing music with JD when we played together at an outdoor concert at Lame Deer. At one point I asked him if he would have a conversation with me, and we spoke to each other through our Native American flutes. Following the concert, JD and his wife and family helped me pack up my equipment. I asked if he would make me one of his wonderful flutes. The day I was leaving the area, JD showed up at the Heritage Center and presented to me the beautiful masterpiece that I still play to honor JD’s kind spirit. When not being played, it rests on the holder JD crafted in front of JD’s portrait in my study. I was so surprised to learn that JD passed to the other side because we had a telephone visit during the summer of 2020 and he was in good spirits. Amy, I will always treasure the short visit I had with you, JD and your kids.