Octa Pearl Calland Small was born on May 24, 1937 to Clarance and Estella Calland in Edgemont, South Dakota. Octa grew up in Edgemont and participated in drama club high school and she was the majorette for the high school band. During high school, she worked in her parent’s theaters; the Iris and the Atomic drive Inn.
In 1962,Octa began her career working for the United States government for Indian Health Services in Rosebud, South Dakota. In 1980, she moved to Lame Deer, Motana taking the position as the Contract Health Specialist, after 30 years in the field Octa retired in 1992.
Octa was an avid reader. She would have her E-reader with her at all times. She also was a skilled seamstress. She made traditional ribbon shirts, Pendleton coats, and outfits. Octa loved pow-wows, beading and listening to flute music. She always had a smile on her face. She loved to work in her yard and she loved ALL her kids.
Octa had a very positive attitude: she was strong willed and was a very hard worker. She had many obstacles
in her life, she battled cancer and other ailments such as Non-Hodgkins lymphoma, and receiving a pace maker to help keep her heart ticking. She was a fighter to the end!
Octa is survived by her husband, Clifford, her children; Tony Red Wing, Hardin, MT, Jenell Martinez(Mick), Alliance, NE, Missy (Brad) Bartling, Mission, SD, Ramah Red Wing, Ashland, MT, James Red Wing, Rapid City, SD, Lyle Red Wing, Utica New York, Karla (Barry) Harris, Hungry Horse, MT, Fonda (Steve) Knox, Lewistown, MT, Brandon (Jenny) Small, Lame Deer Montana, Alisha Small, Lame Deer, MT and Eli Small Bismarck, ND.
Octa has 34 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren. She has many nieces, nephews and friends.
Octa was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Estella Calland, infant brother Eugene, Quentin Small and (Hunka) sister Marie Good Shield. Her favorite saying was, “It is what it is!’ and “I’m one tough old bird!” Octa will be dearly missed and the family wishes to thank the Riverstone Hospice House for helping her in the final days of her life on this beautiful earth.
Memorials can be made in Octa’s name to the Lame Deer Boys and Girls Club.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Wednesday July 13, 2022
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Thursday July 14, 2022
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Thursday July 14, 2022
Alison Bixby Memorial Gardens
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Wednesday July 13, 2022
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Thursday July 14, 2022
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Interment
Following the Funeral Service
Thursday July 14, 2022
Alison Bixby Memorial Gardens
Lame Deer, Montana 59043
Share
Becky Stanton says
Clifford and family
My sincere sympathies for the loss of Octa. She was so vibrant. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Becky from Big Sky Mine
Debbi and Tim Dove says
Condolences to Clifford and to Octa’s children, grandchildren and great grands. We will miss our neighbor across the way on hwy. 212.
Aster Berhane M.D says
OOH, my dear Octa,
Very sad to hear. Indeed she is one tough old bird!!
God make you strong Clifton and family. It was nice knowing Octa and visiting with her in clinic!!!
Mary Jane Robinson says
Our thoughts and prayers to you all. Octa sure loved her family. Hugs and prayers for your comfort and healing.
Mrs. Spell says
My condolences to the family on the loss of a beautiful person whose smiles, laughter, and kindness will be forever remembered. In God’s care and keeping, she is at peace. Psalms 37:11,29
pat riedel says
Clifford and family
so sorry to hear of Octa’s passing. She was a neat lady and will be missed by many.
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF OCTA SMALL AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOSS OF A BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Melissa Whitewolf-Royston says
Sending my condolences to Octa Pearl’s family. She gave me a break in the government. I’m now going on 30 years in purchased/referred care AkA: contact health services. Octa had many stories of her shenanigans in South Dakota . I was so blessed to have her in my life as a role model. RIP boss until we meet again.
Jim and Rita Alderman & Family says
Our thoughts prayers and condolences to All the Family. She was a very nice and gifted woman and are saddened by her passing
Thilla Red Bird says
Prayers for comfort and strength Clifford Small and Family. I am sure going to miss Octa. Enjoyed our visits. So, very saddened to hear of her passing.