Marietha was born to the late Milton and Mamie Eaglefeathers on May 29, 1951, where they made the family home in Busby, MT. Marietha was a 5th generation descendant of Chief Dull Knife whose Cheyenne name was Ameohne´e (Amay-yo-neh) meaning Walks Along Woman.
While growing up she enjoyed spending time with her grandparents: Oliver & Julia Eaglefeathers - Stamper White, James & Sally Bites. Marietha was not afraid to be unconventional and was truly a trendsetter. As a small child she received a role in the movie Cheyenne Autumn. She was active in the pow-wow circuit where she won many competitions but most notable was the Honorable Mention she received in the Miss Indian America Pageant in Sheridan, WY circa 1966.
Over her lifetime she held many jobs but her most gratifying job was when she worked as a Medical Resources Technician for Tribal Health Department where she assisted many people in receiving benefits such as social security, workman´s comp, Medicaid, Medicare. She enjoyed advocating for people so much that long after retiring she continued helping people. She lived the majority of her life in the Flathead Valley with her late husband, Thomas "Jock" Hendrickson; from this union she developed fond memories of his children.
Marietha was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings - Delpha, Milene, Twila Eaglefeathers, and niece, Denise Shoulderblade.
Marietha is survived by her 3 children: Tyra Spotted Elk of Bremerton, WA; Tami (Howard) Ontiveros of Lame Deer, MT; Cheyenne (Angeline) Hendrickson of Billings, MT. Siblings: Mildred Eaglefeathers of Lame Deer, MT; Rhoda Glenmore of Busby, MT; and Melbert "Moke" (Carol) Eaglefeathers of Butte, MT. Niece´s: Delpha, Lari Jean, Shandi, Michele, Dawn Marie Eaglefeathers, Stacie Joiner, Joni Whiteman. Nephews: Vaughn Shoulderblade, Duane, Dana, Shawn, Mychal, Moke Eaglefeathers, Dornie, Randy, Brandy Americanhorse. Grandchildren: Trey, Damon, Katelyn, Andrew, Kiah, Kean, Laila, Pacen, LaTrell, Cheyenne Angel, Thomas. Marietha loved all her grandchildren but she shared a very special and unique bond with Trey and Laila. After returning back to Lame Deer, Marietha touched the lives of so many relatives and friends, she held a special place in her heart for Lorraine Waters, Pauline Eaglefeathers, Wanda Russell, Dolly HiWalker, Emaline Gleason, Louise Fisher, and Marietha Charette to name a few. We come from a large extended family so please accept our sincerest apologies if we left anybody out.
Georgia Burns says
Marietha was an awesome woman, she always had something good to say to me. My prayers are with all of the family and her children and grandchildren. I have known her for over 40 years.
Denise Swank says
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother, grandma, auntie, sister, and friend, I will miss her truely, she was a fine and comical person. She will rest in peace in no pain and happy to be with her relatives ahd friend in the place we call Heaven. Love you all/ You are in my prayers
Cora and Randy Stennerson says
Marietha always had a good time with us and my folks, Jim and Inez Peppers, her friendship was a special one to us. She loved to tease and never had harsh words towards us or my folks. Marietha will be missed.
Gale Fyant says
Marietha was a very good friend of ours. Gordon and I got to know her after she married our good friend Jock Hendrickson. She will be missed. My Prayers & hugs go out to her family at this time. Love Gordon and Gale Fyant Polson, Montana