On February 18th, 2013, Terry Lee Spotted Wolf Jr., 37, “Bird Trail” “Ve’ke se hemeo’o” said good-bye to us all to take his final journey. He was known to many as “Sonny” and “Wolf”. He was a “Chiefs Child,” a direct descendent of hereditary chiefs.
On November 25th, 1975, he was born to the late Sgt. Terry Lee Spotted Wolf Sr. and Maria Russell-Big Fire. Sonny had a huge love for his family, especially his mother whom he took special care of concerning her health. He was very protective of his children, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews and all those dear to him. Corey Spotted Elk was his adopted brother and no one could come between their brotherly bond. He loved his grandma Charlotte Rock Roads, who made him feel so special and loved. His special auntie Esther Little Wolf who he had a very close and loving relationship with. His special friends were Cordelia Big Man, Julie Morgan, Carissa Whitewolf, Starla Shoulderblade, Davetta (Deville) Archambeau, Nate Riekena, William Stiffarm, James Williams (Trigger), Joel Means. Sonny had two favorite nieces, Deidre Maria and Raelei and loved his nephews Chrisman, Ian, Colin Fox, Tracy, Jacobi and Thomas, Terryn John-Henry, Dallazay.
Sonny had a playful spirit and loved to tease and make people laugh. He loved to bake and was known for his “Sweet Tooth and Starbursts.” He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and skilled fisherman and loved to explore and cruise. Sonny was very intelligent, maintaining a 4.0 in grade school, high school and in college. In 1994, he graduated from Colstrip High School with honors. He was a member of the National Honor Society and was listed in “Who’s Who of America High School Students all four years of high school and in college. He was a skilled mechanic and carpenter and was last employed at Conoco Philips in Billings, MT. His life-long dream was to follow in his father’s footsteps, the late Sgt. Terry L. Spotted Wolf Sr., with a career in Law Enforcement. Words cannot express how much he will be missed.
Sonny is survived by his parents Maria (Russell) and Henry Big Fire; other mom, Malinda Crazy Mule; his companion Shannon Wooden Thigh and new baby daughter, Mariah K’Lee. He married the love of his life Starlynn Beth Whiteman and out of this union had one beautiful daughter, Jaissa Terri. They later divorced. He is also survived by daughters Sossity and Madison; Sons Terry III, Kalem and Brizhon. Brothers Terrence Spotted Wolf, Terry (Ashley) Spotted Wolf, Cliff Jon Russell, Jessie & Kyle Phipps, Bobby & Marty Big Back, Jody, Kevin, Terry Curley, Ron Haugen, Sheldon King, James David Little Whiteman, Dylan Kills On Top, Chase Woodenlegs, Roddy Little Bear, Robert Braveheart Jr. Emery & Brandon Braveheart, Merlin, Wade Littlesun, Douglas, Dakota, Duane, Darrin, Dallen Swank, Ivan Horace III Littlesun, Troy Kills On Top Jr., James Wolfname, Tristan Littlewolf, Drew, Sheldon, Steve Jr., Zachary Whiteshield, Jeff Spang, Lee Jay, Ron Jr. Big Back, Johnny Medicine Top Jr., Keith, George Cree, Wacey, Shawn Elkshoulders, Talon, Tyler Medicine Horses, Aldon Antelope, Brody, Blaine Brady, Macklynn(Kinsey) Two Moons, Robert McLean Jr., Tommy LaFranier, sisters Michelle Spotted Wolf, Angel (Robert) Spotted Wolf, Haroldine Fisher, Regine, Tiffany Shacheen Russell and Sabette Little Bear, Angelica W.M., Sue Big Back, Anne Good Luck, Tuesday Sara Walker, Clarissa, Jennifer, Ashley, Brooke Whitewolf, Denise, Tera Curley, Rayette King, Susie & Lanigan Capitan, Delrae Medicine Horse, Lori (Merlin) Kills Night, Cicely Littlewolf, Shannon Yepa, Tonia, Tianna, Rianna, Amber Littlesun, Darissa, Dawnette Swank, Gladys, Robia Big Back, Diandra, Alison Little Whiteman, Leslie, Kendra Woodenlegs, Keri Lynn Brady, Cassie Russell, Dalena, Katelyn Phipps, Adrianne Braveheart, Janae Littlesun, nephews Chrisman, Cross, Ian, Colin, Jacobi, Thomas, Tracy, Terryn, LaRenzo Fisher; nieces Deidre (Ty), Raelei, Chayla, Casland and Shalay; Aunts Anne Knows His Guns, Estelle (Ben) Armentrout, Joyce Three Fingers, Verda (Raymond) King, Aline Kills On Top, Evaline (Bob) Brave Heart, Jenny Kills On Top, Renita (Elmer) Ogle, Diane (Dale) Phipps, Rebecca, Katrina, Betsy Littlesun, Germaine Brien, Jamie S.W. and Sonja H.S., Patti (John) Walks Along, Donna (Mike) Hurff, Barbera (Craig) Weber, Shawna (Ken) Deputee, Event S.W., Lisa S.W., Selma and Jenny, Pam S.W., Patricia (Charles) Yellowfox, Rita H.W., Denise B., Ilene B.R. and Christina and Gail Spang; Darlene Small, Gennie Small, Evelyn Highbull, Nellie (Steve) Whiteshield. Uncles James (JD) Spotted Wolf, Ron (Cindy) Big Back Sr., Gary Spang, Nathan Spang, Robert Bement, George Bement, George (Lori) Cooper, Donald (Marlene) Cooper, Ervin Small, Clifford (Rosaita) Russell, Joe (Emily) Weasel Bear, Becky (George) Elkshoulder, Lucy (Gordon) Rave, Byron (Shannon) Swan, Tim Lamewoman, Ron (Coleen) Spang, Edwin Whiteman Sr. Vernon Little Bear, Karen, Eugina, Corrina, Alice Jean Russell, Lance, Merle, John III, Winfield Russell, Cleveland, Gordan High Bull, Lucian Rising Sun; cousins Cameron (LaVonne) Russell Sr., Babyson (Donna) , Collins Raye, Rossalyn (Chris), Ivoree, Angel Russell, Rusty Castro, Ivanda Grinell and Jared (JC) Russell, Annette (Tiger) Scalpcane and Clayton (Anita) Small Jr., Cleveland (Iola) Bement, Jimmy (Shari) and Keith (Rose) Bement plus numerous beloved cousins, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles.
He is survived by Grandmother Theodora Aladine (James) Spang. Uncles Troy Kills On Top, Merlin, Horace Littlesun, Donna Bearcomesout, Doris Sequi, Grandparents Charlotte (Tommy) RockRoads, Ruthie (Don) Shoulderblade, Florence (Mike) Running Wolf, Rachael (George) Magpie, Eva (Jim) Lee, Anne (Daytone) Rabin Mari Little Wolf, Jeanie Strange Owl, Rachel, Debby, Shasta, Sylvia, Melvin, Frankie, Dayton, Wayne, Cornelius, Marietha Charette, Louise Fisher, Cleveland (Corliss) Holy Elk Boy.
He is preceded in death by his father Terry, grandma Elaine Strange Owl, Sylvia Garcia, Elva Russell, Agnes Littlesun, Elsie Russell, Great-Grandmothers Alice Rising Sun-Russell, Grace Strange Owl, Jean Spotted Wolf, grandpas David S.O., Alfred S.O., Gordon S.., John Russell Sr., Patrick Spotted Wolf. Jimmy, Clarence (Bisco) and Clifford Spotted Wolf; Clifford, Johnny and Eugene Russell; grandma Aldora, Josephine, Ruby and Molly Spotted Wolf; uncle Ivan Russell, Regis Little Bear and Larry Flying Sr., Aunts Alfretta Russell and Leanne Little Bear; cousins Mandy Russell and Fred Walker IV.
Our families are Spotted Wolfs, Spangs, Glenmore, Rednecks, Strange Owls, Night Walkers, Youngmans, Rising Sun, Strange Owls, American Horse, Russells, Kingfisher, Two Birds, Big Backs, Rowlands, Parkers, Sooktis, Glenmore’s and Seminoles, and relatives too numerous to mention so we deeply apologize if we have left someone out.
Service Schedule
Interment
Following Services
Saturday February 23, 2013
Allison Bixby Memorial Gardens
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Service Schedule
Interment
Following Services
Saturday February 23, 2013
Allison Bixby Memorial Gardens
Lame Deer, MT 59043
DOROTHY SEMINOLE says
Maria nd Family i am so very sorry for you loss, i am sending my condolences to you and your family. I will be praying for you family </3
Ann Knows His Gun & Family says
Deepest condolences to Sonny’s family; Maria & Hank, Michelle and especially to his children. Auntie will miss meeting up with you and our little chats. You left us so suddenly Sonny. I will miss you & I LOVE YOU … R.I.P. Sonny :'(
Clayton & Lisa Mason says
Our condolences to maria and family and to his children. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Daniel & Lillian Big Man says
Thoughts and prayers to Sonny’s family and especially his children. God be with you all during this difficult time.
Glenda Littlebird and family says
Michelle, Maria and family……so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
William & Clarice Walksalong & Family says
May maheo watch over you Maria, your daughter and his children.
Troy & Lori Killsontop and Family says
Maria & Hank and family: Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thoughts and prayers. May you take comfort in knowing an angel is watching over Sonny, and that the love of those around you help you throught the days ahead.
Willow & Family says
Dear Sister Maria, We all send our Condonlences and Prayers to you and Family and will continue praying and send our love.
Kimberly Medicine Bull & Family says
Maria, So sorry for the loss of Sonny. He was a great father and brother in law, he will be greatly missed. Sending our Thoughts and Prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. R.I.P. Sonny
Michael & Kristi Speelman says
Maria, Hank and Family is so hard to lose someone you Love so much. Please accept our condolences and Prayers in your time of loss. God Bless you and your Family
Roy Fisher, Sr. & Family says
RIP Sonny
Glad to share lots of good times & Good memories with my Brutha Sonny
Through Thick & Thin ~ Glad I was there for you when you needed me and greatful for the times you were there for me
Much Luv & Prayers to my son Chrisman, Maria & Family
Aljo & Christine Strangeowl says
To Maria and Hank, brothers and sisters we are very sorry for your loss prayers to the whole family.
carissa whitewolf says
Man brother I love u and miss u with all my heart n I’ll see u on the other side leave the door open for me! 🙁
Aubrey Ridgebear says
Man, there are no words I or anybody else can say that will ease your pain from the loss of Sonny….I will just say this…..It’s only through Gods grace that we can live with such pain and still live on……though things will never be the same from here on out, I know that in time, your pain will ease, barely, but it will………Lord be with you guys all……..I’m so sorry for your loss, he was a good guy………….You’ll be in my family’s thoughts and prayers…
Event Spotted Wolf says
My prayers and thoughts are with you Maria, Hank, Michele and Sonny’s kids. Sonny is now with loved ones who have gone before us. Rest in peace my nephew love you much Auntie.
Larry Bixby IronHand says
Michelle and Maria I’m very sorry for your lose of a very good man,Son,Brother. My prayers are with you & your family .
Angela Spotted Elk says
My condolences to Sonny’s family…..he was a good man and a good friend…….no words can even begin to ease the pain….just know that he will always be near and treasure your memories…..he is your guardian angel! R.I.P……my friend…..you will be missed by all who knew you!
Jamie whiteman says
Maria(Sister) Hank
and the rest of the family Sorry for your loss..I am going to miss his Salsa and and banana bread,,Always called me when he finished them Bread would still be warm..Take care of yourself sis..He loved you very much.and you always told me He was your sonny..and that you loved him very much..I am always here for you just like your there for me always..I will continueing praying for you and your family.
Event Spotted Wolf says
Maria, Hank, Michelle and family my prayers and thoughts are with you. Sonny is now with loved ones who have gone before us. Rest in peace my nephew love you much…
Ami Brien - Burns says
Prayers for strength & peace for each one of us who grieve the loss of Sonny in this life… RIP my fren…
Melissa Whitewolf Royston says
Maria & Family,
Sorry to hear of your loss. I pray that Maheo comfort you all and his children.
Faithe Lonebear Merrick says
Jr. & I are truly sorry to hear of your loss, We pray that Maheo takes care of you and your family during this difficult time. We Love you.
Kenny, Faithe, Craig and Lauren Merrick
Ametanee says
May God Rest His Soul, and Help the Family with their Grief!
Beverly shelley says
Maria family,
So sorry for your loss, you are all in my thoughts & prayers.May the angels in heaven watch over Terry.
Gaylene Knowshisgun-Page says
Maria and family,
Sending our condolences to you and yours during this difficult time of loss. Our prayers are with you, that Ma’heo’o comfort your hearts as your beloved travels to the land of our ancestors ~ where our warriors are forever young. With much love and respect from our home to yours.
Gaylene K.H.G. – Page and Family
julie rogers says
NEVER SEEN THIS COMING. THOUGHT YOU WOULD ALWAYS BE HERE. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART MY BROTHA. SEE YOU AGAIN SOMEDAY.
Danetta Fisher says
I am so sorry for your loss…May Creator God comfort you in this time…
Joey Littlebird says
Prayers to the family…Rest in peace, travel well Sonny.
Henrietta Bear and Family says
Maria our condolences are with you and your family at this time of the family’s loss.. May God comfort your hearts and hold you in his arms.
Leslie Hull says
May the good memories you have keep you comforted during this difficult time. Prayers are being said for your families.
Rennie Whiteman Pena says
Sending my condolences to the family of Terry “Sonny” Spotted Wolf, there are never the right words to say during a time like this, but prayers and gatherings of friends and family help to ease the pain. Maria and family I pray that you find that Terry was known and loved by many. He may have struggled with things in his life, but he never forgot what was important to him and that was FAMILY! May Maheo give you the strenth that you need during this time and days to come, God bless you and may He carry you all.
Lynnette white dirt and family says
Maria and family my prayers are with you all in your time of need.
Mary Spang says
Maria & Hank sending my condolences to you and your family during this difficult time,Prayers to his children.
James D. Jr. & Ann King says
Oh, Maria and family, our hearts ache for your loss. I first got to know Terry when I subbed in his 3rd grade class. He was so kind and such a gentleman! I later heard that he’d received the “citizenship” award for his class. We pray that you and the family will find peace, knowing how valued and loved he was by so many.
Denise Swank says
So sorry for your loss. I watched Sonny grow up. He was such a character. Kept one laughing,he will surely be missed.prayers for you Maria, Hank, Michelle and rest of family. God will comfort you.
Miriam Knows His Gun-Beartusk & Family says
Maria, Michelle, Hank and all his loved ones… I know there are never the right words to say to someone when they’re struck by such a sudden and tragic loss. Please know that we carry a heavy heart with you all. Please know that our God is a loving and merciful father. Your son/brother is experiencing a great reunion with all his loved ones! May God rain down his sweet comfort that will, in time, ease your pain. What a legacy this bright, smiling, compassionate man has left for his children. They will know of his loving nature and brilliant mind. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. You will see our nephew, Sonny, again. Until then, know that he is just away for awhile… to help prepare your heavenly homes. God Bless.
gregory KnowsHisGun says
sonny was always cool to me…I only had good thoughts for him and am truly sorry to see a good warrior fall. I believe the family will be healed in time, and the void he left will somehow be stitched….take strength. God be with you all….I once had a dream my other nephew showed me a beautiful place and mansions by a lake. He asked if I would like one, and told me “they” could have it built by the end of the day….I take comfort in knowing they who went before us are okay. as you know I also lost someone very dear to me, and although I still miss her terribly..there is a reason they have to go first. what? we will not understand here….Peace Maria….. and to your family also.
Myra Fisher says
Thinking about the last time I got the chance to visit with Sonny,was at the Justus Inn, He was and forever will be so proud of his baby girl and her mother. That is how I will always remember him “proud” of his family. Prayer’s to the family my heart goes out to you Maria as a mother to a mother. May God comfort you and mend your broken heart. Rest In Peace Terry
J Johnson says
Dear Family and Friends of Terry Spotted Wolf, even though I did not personally know Mr. Spotted Wolf, the loss of every human life is significant to me and should be valued by all. It is obvious according to the information listed above about Mr. Spotted Wolf, that he was loved and his life touched many people. His life was also valued by the Creator who recorded in the Bible book of Hebrews that God does not forget all of the love and fine works shown by Mr. Spotted Wolf (Heb 6:10). It was not God’s original purpose that mankind suffer and die. At creation God was able to say that everything was “very good” (Gen 1:31) Death was introduced through Adam’s disobedience (Genesis 2:17). Jesus’ sacrifice of his human life on earth again gave us hope of everlasting life and soon death will be no longer occur (Revelation 21:4). Hopefully, faith in these Bible promises will ease the pain from this loss as you look forward to seeing Mr. Spotted Wolf, again under perfect conditions as promised in the Bible.
Lynette Spang says
Prayers to you Maria, Hank, Michelle & Terry’s kids . I will always remember the good times we had in school. Be strong for his children!
Cody Shane Rockroads says
All my condolences to the family of my cousin. It pains me to know that someone who was always a presence in my childhood is no longer here. Although the thought of him no longer troubled by earthly desires eases this pain. May he always be remembered in a brilliant light and never forgotten for his many accomplishments.
Joni Jo Knows His Gun & Family says
Maria, Hank, Michelle, Terrance, Angel and family we send our thoughts and prayers to you. May the creator be with you and comfort you. Sonny has touched many people and will be looking down from above.
Phyllis Curley-Swain says
Maria & family,
Sending our condolences.
Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. (John16:22)
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (Matthew5:4)
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Beatrice (welch) Beard says
My deepest condolenses to you&sonnys family! I am so sorry for your loss!! You are in my thoughts&prayers!
Roberta Bement says
I was never real sure if Sonny knew my name…every time we met up it was always… Aren’t you Eldora’s grand-daughter or aren’t you Robert’s daughter…but he always acknowledged me…as children we would go their house on the hill and Maria would have him say Birney Village and Lil’ Sonny would say….Birney Biddage….good times shared as children….RIP Sonny…give grandma eldora and grandpa jesse a hug for me…. <3
Georgia Burns says
Hank, Maria,Michelle and family: Also to his children and their mothers
My prayers are going out to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss: When you lose a child suddenly, it is a tragic time. Now is a time of great grief and sadness, my prayers are with you. From a mother who had to bury two children: Maria please don’t blame and second guess yourself as I have. I have learned its God’s will and in God’s time. Although I don’t know why…I will someday!!!! I will keep you in my heart and prayers always…my friend!! Sending Love To you all…… !!!
May you be comforted and surrounded by God’s angels
Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
Dear Maria, Michelle and family,
I was saddened to hear the news of Terry. I have fond memories of him. We took some classes together at Dull Knife and he always made a point to talk to me and was very respectful to me. All my years at Jimtown he never caused me any trouble. Losing a child has the biggest heartache one could ever have. Things will never be the same for you; but you must put everything in Gods hands and He will take of you. There is no pain for him—its those of us left behind that suffer. The comforting thing is knowing that we will see our loved ones again. I am so sorry for your loss. all of your family is in my prayers. Mary and Jolyn Dilon
zacharywhiteshield says
I LOVE YOU SONNY NO MATTER WHAT MEMBER BRO’S IN TELL WE MEET AGAIN I MISS U BRO R.I.P
Michelle Lee Spotted Wolf says
Sitting here reflecting on this whole past week and a half, reading all the love n support in your honor. I miss you so much…I love you n cant wait to see you again. I promise to be here for your kids and shannon and mom. Love you my lil brother!