Maheo called Lonnie Ray Flatness, Lone Elk…home on July 3rd 2020. Lonnie was born November 29, 1954 to Kermit and Dorothy (Harris) Flatness in Billings, MT. He grew up in Alderson Gulch on the Flatness ranch. He attended St. Labre. After graduating he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps through the buddy system with his best friend/brother Wayne Tallbull on February 14th which was known as their first anniversary. After serving four years in the Marines he was honorably discharged and returned home to Alderson Gulch maintaining the Flatness Ranch running cattle and horses. He was a man of many trades he worked numerous jobs in construction, housing, Colstrip power plant and lastly the facilities manager with the BIA. Lonnie was always quick to volunteer to help when fires broke out on the reservation.
Lonnie was well known for his cowboy skills. He traveled and raised cain along the rodeo circuit riding bulls. He qualified for the INFR numerous times and was even featured in the “American Cowboy” magazine. After retiring from the bulls he continued to be active in the rodeo circuit being a pick-up man with Marvin Woodenlegs and often times they provided more entertainment than the rough stock. He could also be found running the hills with the guys chasing wild horses and cattle. He was always laughing and joking trying to ensure everyone was having a good time.
He will always be remembered as the tough love type of father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, saying “long ways from your heart”. His door was always open, and he was always willing to lend a hand. He would even give you the shirt off his back. Lonnie had a big heart and he was always taking in his children’s friends and other youth as his own providing support and encouragement.
Lonnie is survived by his daughters LaShawna Beartusk, Shawnta’ (Ian) Flatness, and Codylace (Stephen) Not Afraid-Gardner. His sister Doreen Pond, nephews Richard (Billie) Foote Jr, Leland (Kendallynn) Pond. Neices Diane (John) Pond, Ricarda (Bob) Hanson and Alyson Flatness. Grandchildren: Kairell, Keenan, Kaiden, Penny G, Micahlyn, MyLeah, Cassidy, and Cheyenne. Others he took as his extended children: Lashanda Hargrove, Maraya BlessingGame, Tracy Jo Schweigert, Josh Sioux, Mikey Sioux, Jesse James, Colt Littleowl, Michael “Tracy” Charette Jr.
Lonnie is preceded in death by his parents Kermit & Dorothy Flatness, brothers Kermit “Ole” and Edward Flatness. Sisters Roberta “Sister” Foote and Sherri Lou Flatness. His son Tyson Flatness.
The extended family include: Flatness, Harris, Peppers, Kinzel, Standing Elk, Johnson, Beckman.
He had many more as he had such a big heart we apologize if anyone was left out.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
11:00 AM
Tuesday July 7, 2020
St. Labre Football Field
Ashland, Montana 59003
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ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
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.
Diane White and Family says
Sending our condolences to the family and frens of Lonnie Flatness. Your family will be in our prayers for your tragic loss. Lonnie was such a good person and always very nice to everyone, he will be missed by many.
Roger and Amanda Dillard says
We are sending prayers and hugs for the Flatness family, along with the condolences for the rest of the family .
We lost another best friend his journey will be great to heaven and the Lord will welcome with open arms. Lonnie was a very nice person everyone like him he will missed by all.
Bert and Helen Woods says
To all of Lonnie”s family,
We are so sorry to hear of Lonnie’s death. He was a good friend and a good person. He will be missed,.
Michele Tall Bull says
My Heart is Broken Once Again for My Nieces LaShawna n Shaunta’ Flatness, known No Words can Replace the Comfort of Being !!! May You Find PEACE Within !!! Known one day Soon we will Rejoice AGAIN !!!!! Love You !!! Auntie Chele
Tbearchum family says
My heart goes out to the flatness family, I knew him when I just got out of the navy and he gave me the chance to become a maintenance worker,he was a mentor and a friend I’ll always remember him as tuff but reasonable boss. God bless Tyrone Lee Bearchum.
Tyrone Bearchum says
I’ll see you soon my friend
Andrita Harris says
Deepest condolences and prayers to the family. going to miss Lonnie. Cuz RIP. Have a safe journey,
Ann (Strange Owl) Knows His Gun says
Deepest Condolences to the girls. Prayers for your sorrow. Lonnie was a Good Guy. RIP friend.
Eddie Foote says
I’ll always have a place in my heart for him. He will be missed and I’ll see you when I get there Marine. IGY6 Sending my best to the family.
Debbie (Bixby) Young says
My prayers go out to the Flatness family. Lonnie was a great guy and I will miss him. We were not only friends, but we are cousins and I really enjoyed the times we have talked. I will see you in heaven when it is my time to go.
Maus RedRobe says
One of the greatest, kindest, funniest, man I have had the honor of meeting. This man will truly be missed by all who knew him. My deepest condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Mike & Paula Childers says
We always enjoyed seeing and visiting with Lonnie when he came to our shop. He was always smiling, so good natured. He was someone we looked forward to seeing and it was a pleasure to know him. Heartfelt sympathy to his family. He will be missed.
Billie Vassau says
RIP Lonnie.
Cindy Stanton says
My condolences go out to the Flatness girls and all of Lonnie’s family and friends. So many of the old group from when I lived there is gone now. I know that there was great jubilation with Wayne, Leroy & Tyson(and many others) when Lonnie arrived on the other side.
Lonnie will always be remembered as tough, strong, fun and mischievous and a real help to those in need. Especially young folks.
It was a pleasure knowing you Lonnie. Thanks for brightening my world.
Mary Dillon says
I am so sad to hear that Lonnie left us so soon Both Jolyn And I have so many memories with him and his family. There was so many wagon rides at Jimtown, rodeos, chasing wild horses and fun bbq’s. Tyson and Jolyn spent so many of their young Growing up years together. Lonnie was a good friend. I’m so sorry Love and prayers to all the family. Mary Dillon
Dottie Johnstone says
So sorry to hear this, nice guy. Good bless him and his family. Never will forget that smile.
Julietta Matt says
Julie (Pitman) Matt
So sorry to hear of Lonnie’s death, sounds like he was a lot like his older brother,(Ole) Kermit. I will put all of his family in my prayers.
Tony and Kim Hewitt says
Just heard the news of Lonnie’s passing. We are so saddened by this. I’ll never forget chasing wild horses and B Sing and drinking beer at Jim Town! Prayers to his family and all of those that had the pleasure of knowing him. RIP Lonnie!
Donald Treat Thompson says
Rest well MARINE. Fair winds an following seas. Will miss seeing you this summer. OORAH! Semper fi once a Marine always a Marine! OORAH! Recon!