Tommy Charette (Mo’kesa’e Ohvo’komaestse, White Buffalo Calf), 33, was called up to the big league in Heaven on November 27, 2020, after a short battle with COVID-19. He was born to John O. and Debra Waters Charette on August 1, 1987 and became the little brother to JoniKay Charette. He was an enrolled member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe and was also Turtle Mountain Chippewa decent. And from the get-go, he was ON THE MOVE. He was non-stop with his activities, his willingness to learn, his willingness to assist with sports, his ability to memorize movies and songs, and his quick wit with everyone he met.
Except for Head Start in Lame Deer, Tommy was a lifelong Colstrip Mustang and finishing high school as a Colstrip Colt in 2006. During this time in high school, he competed in football, wrestling, and track and field. He was accomplished in so many of these sports. During his middle school days, he made Team Montana Wrestling for the middle school national duals. In high school, he was also a part of state championship track team in the 4×400 relay team. In the summers, he competed in American Legion baseball and his ultimate love SOFTBALL.
He attended Miles Community College where he graduated May 9, 2009. He played one year of baseball for pioneers. He then attended MSU Billings for a couple of years before starting work with BIA Roads to support his little family. He began a career with Talen Energy as a Utility Worker and began the apprenticeship program ultimately becoming a Board Operator.
He was also an excellent bowler, he bowled leagues in Billings, Forsyth and Hardin. His bowling teams were Waters Edge Bowling, Community Center Bowl and Da Boys Bowling. He would attend the annual BIA Bowling tourney and won it twice with Waters Edge (2016 & 2018). He also placed several MT State Bowling tourneys.
As the lover of sports, he enjoyed coaching the younger kiddos with soccer, basketball, softball and wrestling. He was a wrestling official for middle and high school as well. He could be found at the fields in Colstrip on the regular basis to assist and support with any sport.
During the summers, he started playing softball at age 9 in Hardin, MT with the family coed team and from then on, his softball career started. He has played with many softball teams throughout his years. Mens teams include The Jimtown Coyotes, Tin Cans, Redmen, Tongue River, Team Wicked, Da Boys, All Pro, Old Chicago, Bombers, Hardcore Softball, Indianz Softball, WTP (Warning Track Power), Outlawz, AZ Goblinz, Yankdees, and The Mill. And Coed teams include Lilwuf Coed, Thunder Chiefs, Intimidators, Bombers, Shake-n-Bake, #Skoden, RezSox, and LA FAMILIA. He was also the founder of the annual La Familia Coed softball tourney. He traveled many places for softball and made a lot of friends and family along the way. He was always willing to play whenever and wherever. He was known for his hitting and he was taking BP as soon as weather permitted. With his hitting talent, he achieved so many awards and Homerun Derby Honors.
During high school, he met the love his life Brandy Savelkoul and they were married in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 27, 2011. From this union, they had their daughter, Tommee Dawn, on April 17, 2012. Tommee Dawn became daddy’s girl and he was the best daddy to her.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents John & Marietha Risingsun Charette, maternal grandfather Floyd Waters, Grandfathers: Jose Onebear, Russ Miller, Vernon Akins, Joseph Alden, Sr. Earl Charette, Freddy Bellymule; Grandmothers: Jean Galey, Louise Fisher. Uncles: Floyd S. Waters, Theodore Brockie; Aunt: Lawretta Miller; Brother: Yancey Charette. In-law grandparents: Ray and Mel Krenik.
He was survived by his wife Brandy Dawn and daughter Tommee Dawn Charette. His parents John O. and Debra Charette, Sister JoniKay Charette and niece Ollyana Kay. He is also survived by his Grandmothers: Gloria (GDUB) Waters, Ella Miller, Betty Streeter, Julie Elkshoulder, Claudine Littlewolf, Marie Little Wolf, Charlene Alden, Jolene Walkslast, Lorraine Waters, Ramona Charette Klein, Shirley DeLorme, Margie Shoulderblade, and Jeanie Strange Owl; Grandfathers: Chuck Klein, Jr. DeLorme, Aunts: Jana Waters Brockie Waters Redlegs Waters, Michelle Miller, Lisa Old Mouse, Jeanie Beartusk, Daneeta Fisher, Elizabeth Fisher, Iris Buffalo, Melissa LoneBear; Uncles: Michael Charette, Dana Miller, David Miller, Michael Miller, Kevin LoneBear, Sheldon (Sally) King, OT (Henry) Thompson, Bob (Jennifer) Magpie; In-laws: Wendy Krenik, Ray (Terri) Krenik, Desi Savelkoul, Misty Krenik, Dawson, Garrett, Evan Buckalew, Bentley, Ariana, Tanaya, Bryce; Brothers: Tracy (Diane) Charette, Taylor (Ronelle) Charette, Jeremy (Laura) Link, Jason (Samantha) Link, Joshua (Alysia) Link, Lance (Katrina) Ankeny, Vincent Zac (Miranda) Goes Ahead, Tyson (Johnita) Fox, O’Shon Old Mouse, Mikah Dean Little Axe, Fonz (Chastity) LaFranier, Mat Staskiewicz, Travis Browne, Ronnie Anderson, Josh LeProwse, Garrett Jackson, CT Schultz, Bryan Jacklitch, Josh Swan, Chris Baumann, Nick Haney, Tyler Fayden Jon Barthell, Terry Spottedwolf, Derek Factor, Zac Wagon, Butch LittleLight, Austin LittleLight, Jody Jenson ; Sisters: Sherrell Fisher, Tysha Glenmore, Talesha Fitzpatrick, Lasha Fox, Kristin Charette, Sioux Dawn Janis, Norma Two Bulls, Marquette Bagley, Rnea RedBird, Sydney Craig, Sossity Spottedwolf, Joelle Link, Skyler Factor, Tayler Factor, and a GAZILLION of nieces and nephews.
Other family includes: Waters, Charette, Littlewolf, Risingsun, Woodenlegs, Killsnight, Sooktis, Hart, Beaverheart, Harris, Akins, OneBear, King, Alden, Spottedelk, Timber, Savelkoul, and Krenik.
Floyd says
Man sorry debbie and John we american horses love you guys peace
Butch Dempster says
My sincere condolences to the family.
Kurt Cadlo says
So sorry for your loss. Tommy was one of the nicest down to earth person I ever met. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Mountain Weaselbear says
Always knew tommy seen him always running in softball tourny’s
I always seen how many basketball shoes Jordan retros he had I always messaged about selling me some but he just said he just put them on Facebook to show them to people but just this past year we start gaming together right off he said mountain going off carrying the team n would always wanna play together on a daily man he would be joking around all night long making me n my girlfriend laugh (kiana) good times n he got me into going to a softball tourny but I wished I could’ve made it to his softball tourny in Colstrip but till we meet again brother!
Ann (Strange Owl ) Knows His Gun says
Deepest Condolences Debbie & Family. Prayers from my family to yours.
Rhoda Glenmore says
My heart is so broken. Tommy you are so special. God gained a beautiful Angel. I cant even see what I’m writing cuz the tears are nonstop. When you enter the pearly gates give my son CPL Yellowrobe a hug from me. Love you Tommy.
Ramona Charette Klein says
Jr., Debbie, Brandy, Joni Kay, Tommee Dawn and Ollyana,
You are in our prayers ; we know that your world will never be the same without Tommy but we also know that he will always be in your hearts. Hold on to the precious memories. Tommy touched so many lives in his short 33 years with us. He left a legacy for his love of life and love of people.
I wish that we could be there with you and grieve his passing together but because we are not able to we send our love , hugs and prayers . Uncle Chuck and Auntie Ramona Charette Klein
Greg Ashworth says
We are very sorry to hear of Toomy’s passing. If it was a softball tournament we always saw him there. Such a short life. Prayers go out to all of you and his team mates. Ashworth Roofing mens team, Bud Light Co-Ed.
Shelly Holum says
Sending Prayers to all of the family
Gary and Amber Ramsey says
We are so saddened by Tommy’s passing! Many prayers and much love to all of you! May memories give you comfort!!
Bret Hellyer says
Deepest condolences to the family. Tommy (Dreamer) was always great competition and a fantastic teammate when I was able to play in the native tournament in Billings. Until we grab a bat and glove on the big field my friend! Rest easy.
Clarence n Nona Schaff says
Praying for you Brandy n Tomme Dawn. May God comfort and strengthen you during this dad time. Love n prayers
Lynette Spang & family says
JR., Debbie, Joni Kay, Ollyana, Brandy, & Tommee Dawn, we are so so sorry for your loss it is so hard to believe. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs and much love to all of you during this most difficult.
David Shreeve says
I can remember from the time Jana would bring Tommy to BBall practice with her until he grew into a very respectable young man. He was polite, helpfull and ever-so handsome and such a great young man to be around. His smile could melt anyone into having a great day. It didn’t matter where he was, his presence made the day brighter. His passing is so untimely, but it is evident he was needed to bring his presence on the other side.
Blessings to Gloria, Debbie, Jr., JoniKay, Jana Fay, and all the families. May your grief be buffered by your memories of Tommy.
.
, and
Ruth Risingsun Phillips says
Jr, Debbie, and family, my deepest condolences to you all during this time. Reading everything I’ve read so far about your son, he seems to have been a very well loved young man. My prayers are with you all.
Donnie and Lori Finnicum says
Thoughts and prayers. Tommy was a very special and one of a kind person. He will be truly missed by many. Rest In Peace my friend. 🙏🙏🙏
Mike Burk says
I am saddened to learn of Tommy’s passing. I began teaching PE at Pine Butte in Colstrip in 1992. I have fond memories of those days and especially of the kids. Tommy stands out in my memory as wonderful person. Happy, playful, athletic, and a great friend to his classmates, I will always remember this of him. My condolences to his family and friends. -MB
Jeff and Linda Hamilton says
We are deaply saddened to hear of Tommy’s passing. He was such a kind and fun loving soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.. Tommy lives on through all of your beautiful memories. God bless.
Mike Caprata says
Debbie and Junior, please accept my deepest condolences. Your family is my my thoughts and prayers.
ROBERT LITTLE WOLF says
THE NORTHERN CHIEF COUNCIL EXTEND THEIR MOST SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF TOMMY CHARETTE AND PRAYERS FOR STRENGTH DURING THIS MOST SAD, SORROWFUL AND MOURNFUL TIME FOR THE LOSS OF A BELOVED LOVE ONE.
Kevin, Desi, & Nota Lonebear says
There are no words to express our condolences. We are praying for all of you. May the Creator lead you through this terrible heart break and may Tommy’s journey to the next camp be blessed. He will be deeply missed. Love and prayers.
McMakin Family says
Prayers of comfort for family and friends. May God hold you tight in this very difficult time.
Harry and Diana Goodwin says
Our condolences go to all the family and friends of Tommy. He will be missed by all who knew him. Hugs for you all to find comfort in this difficult time.
Andrita Harris says
Deepest sympathy and condolences for the Charette Family. So sorry for your loss. Prayers and hugs.
Rezsox Family (Jason & Corinne Walker) says
John, Deb, Joni, Jana, Brandy, Tommee and the rest of the family, Words can’t express how shocked we were to hear of Tommy’s passing. The Charette family has played ball and visited with us so much over the years that Tommy’s loss really hurts our family. We hope you take pride in knowing you raised an exceptional son, brother, nephew, husband, father and better yet a friend. We always looked forward to hearing from our friends from the north coming to play ball so we could catch up with the family and see another year of growth. Tommy always came ready to play and helped Rezsox win some ships! I have been getting texts from our players saying they’ll miss playing with & against Tommy. We will miss the smile and positive attitude that Tommy Gun always seem to have no matter the score. It was an honor to watch him grow and became a family man and a baller. Prayers for the family. Until we meet again brotha. JWalk
GEORGE G SIMMONS says
RIP Tommy! A great bowler, athlete, friend and always fun to be around. Sympathy goes out to family and friends, God Bless!
Christopher Walker says
So sorry for your lost, Tommy was a great guy. I remember going to school with him. Deepest condolences to the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Akn says
My heart & condolences are with you Deb & Family. Maheo plz comfort & be with the Charette family during this very difficult time. Journey well TC ❤️ 🙏🏽
Kristy and Brian Torgerson says
Tommy was such a wonderful man! We have so many special memories of Tommy through all those years of wrestling and football! He was and incredible role model and mentor! Our hearts and prayers are with you all! Much love to the Charette Family!
Brian and Kristy Torgerson and Family
Denise Swank says
Prayers are with the family. Condolences to you all. Sending a son. A brother and uncle. An nephew to the other camp is never easy. It is heart breaking. Just know that Maheo will be the comforter always. Love you all.
Nick LeTang says
A huge loss for the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, Colstrip, and all who knew Tommy. I haven’t seen Tommy in around 13 years, but I can still hear his great laugh in my head like it was yesterday. He had an infectious personality and lifted the spirits of whoever was in the room with him.
Tysh says
My eyes were puffy for bout two days I finally got a good nights rest the other night! When I think of you my eyes just fill with tears that never end til I fall sleep 🥺😭💔 this feeling sucks! Our childhood together was fun! We stayed in hotels often pizza an swimming! idk how many wrestling matches we went to! All the way to Denver even lol 😂 or that time you talked me into jumping off that idk how many foot diving board in Thermopolis or that time u stole some sky blues when I was like 9 years old me u an lash! Sippin lol 😂 My heart just feels really heavy like brother thinking your gone from this earth now! Journey well okay we going to hold it down for mom Joni tommee brandi gramz pops olly girl auntie Jana we got them covered ♥️ You just rejoice in them pearly gates brother I’m really super sad I love you forever-Goodbye #rippanda
Peter Simonich says
I have great memories playing little league baseball with Tommy. His kindness, enthusiasm towards athletics, and personality resonate in all my memories growing up with Tommy in Colstrip. My prayers and condolences go to all family and friends that have been blessed to know Tommy. Rest in peace my friend.
Marshelle Lambert says
My sincere condolences Debbie and family on the loss of your son, father, husband, brother and grandson. Sending many prayers and hugs to you.
Heck Family says
Our deepest condolences for your loss of Tommy. Prayers of comfort for the family and friends of Tommy. May you all find comfort in memories of him during this difficult time.
Chris Streeter says
Debbie, I am so sorry for your loss.
Tracy and Stefanie Forcella says
We are so sorry to hear of Tommy’s passing. We had the opportunity to meet him many years ago at a wrestling tournament in Forsyth. We ran into him a lot after that first meeting and he was always friendly and asked how the boys were doing. Tommy was friends with our oldest son Justin. We are sending prayers for strength and healing during this difficult time.
Doug and Debbie Skiles says
Brandy and Tommee Dawn, Debbie, Jr. and JoniKay,
We are so sorry for your loss. Tommy was a wonderful man. He had the best laugh, easy going nature and a big smile. We are heartbroken for all of you. Love, Hugs and Prayers!
Sable Kerzmann says
I am at a loss for words. Tommy was a great guy & father. We all grew up together- had tons of fun teasing & prodding one another about sports & being competitive- of course, I would always win (but Tommy would say he won too)!
We are so very deeply sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers.
Steve Perusich says
So sorry for your lost. Sending prayers a blessings to all the family. He was a fine young man and will be missed.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Jeanne Shipstead says
There are no words in the face of such a loss.Know your beautiful young man is now in the palm of the Creator of all.
Eleanor Bearchum Parker says
So sad to hear about your son passing Deb and John. My heart goes out to you. Sending hugs and prayers of comfort to all.
Danielle McWilliams (Gunnare) says
I have so many fond memories from the time I lived in Colstrip with Tommy. He was always so fun to be around and had a love of life always radiating off of him. The last time I spent any real time with him was after I had moved to Miles City and a friend of mines winter formal date backed out. Tommy came on a weeks notice and took her to our formal with no hesitation. He was always there to help others even if he hardly knew them. He will be so greatly missed and my heart breaks for all of his family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
George Scalpcane says
My condolences and prayers to the Tommie Charette Family. I would like to pass on “Cheyenne Journey” that was written by Rubie Sooktis and it goes; We, as Cheyenne people know deep in our hearts that the Earth was never our home. Both the Cheyenne Language and the Cheyenne way of life, speak only of journeying through this Earth. The life, which began as a tiny seed, now in death, return to the place of our relatives, who have gone before us. And we know as Cheyenne people, we would return someday to “the place of quietness, a place where the river is calm, and a place where the grass is tall and thick.” There is no need for loneliness because laughter and peace are among the relatives, who have returned there. The battles of Life have come to an end and the pain of Life in no more. Rest in Peace my young ballplaying friend.
Ann Gunnare says
Our thoughts and prayers to the Charette/Waters and extended family of Tommy. He was an incredible young man who made an impact on a lot of people for the right reasons. A much too short but life well spent.
Buggs and Loni says
There are not enough words to tell you all how deeply sorry we are for the loss of Tommy. We just can’t remember times that the boys were not doing some kind of sport together. Oh the wonderful fun times our families had together. The nights we would up from the boys long bus trips and the boys would roll in and crash for the next game. Oh how we loved it. That infectious grin of yours Is going to be so missed. Who knew you would grow up and become Buggs work partner. Oh how he loved and adored you. We know how much I loved you and how special you were to me. There aren’t enough tears to cry for you. Watch over your beautiful family and now when I bake I can send you peanut butter things Lol. We will miss you dearly. Buggs and Loni
Dan Allen says
I first met Tommy in college at MCC. Tommy was one of the nicest and most amazing people I’ve met. He was a person that everyone could talk to and be friends with anyone. I will always have memories with him and our group that I will be able to look back at and smile and laugh. To all of his family, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Emma Richardson says
Our deepest condolences to your family Debbie.
Jane Pierce-McPherson says
Tommy and Brandy were both favorite students of mine. Have always enjoyed the Charente family. Praying so hard for you all now. Wishing you peace.
Bob Parker says
Debbie & John
A peace of my heart left when I read about Tommy. I never will never forget the days I coached him in wrestling. He would always try to wait until I could be his coach before he would start his match. He always had my heart and thru his life I always ask how he was doing. I was always proud of the young man that he became.
I am so sorry John and Debbie
He will never be forgotten.
mary duffy says
Auntie Marbo loves ya’ll. My nephew and friend to watch over us all from heaven. I willremember you always. Brandy and Tommee Dawn You come to me house any time,I’ll leave the light on.
Mary Noel says
Tommy was a sweet, loving, compassionate man. His presence will be felt all day every day. Love and prayers to your family precious Tommy.
Mary Noel says
Oh Brandy. Love and prayers to you sweet sweet lady. ❤
Kim Welch says
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Carla and Jay Kapptie says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. So sorry for your loss.
Chance & Hannah Wilson says
Growing up a couple grades after Tommy seemed like watching a movie star. He was this hyper-charismatic Indian kid from where I was from, so therefore I always adored how he navigated grade school on up. When he and Brandy started dating I remember thinking how lucky she was bc I thought he was so cool. As it turns out he not only was a good role model to us younger ones but a good friend, good son, good brother, good husband and good father. I can’t imagine your big families pain. You all do so much for the community, and his presence will be sorely missed.
-Wolfdog
Earlene Clown and family says
Our condolences to Tommy’s family. Prayers and peace during this time.
Billie Kay Vassau says
My sincere condolences. May the Gods hold you close, keep you safe.
Phyllis Lewis and family says
You are always in our houghts. We love you,
Ray Krenik says
Tommy came in to my life as a teen ager when he started dating my niece Brandy. As a protective Uncle I was unsure if I liked him because I wasn’t sure if anyone could be good enough for her. Over the years it became obvious that not only was he “good enough” he was perfect for her. A wonderful husband , incredible father and genuinely good person ! He treated my family with a love and respect that I almost can’t describe. My children both felt a deep connection with him because every time he saw them he made them feel like rock stars! There just aren’t enough people in this world like Tommy. My most sincere condolences to all who mourn him as there are so many.
Karson and Marie Kluver says
Charette Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Tommy always met you with a sweet smile. A wonderful young man.
Sharon Grinsell says
This is so hard to believe! Tommy will be missed by many. My condolences to all family and friends near and far!!
JUDY ROSS says
My thoughts and prayers to the Charrette family during this difficult time.
David Bierlein says
Tommy’s laugh and smile could brighten any room. He was always so much fun to be around. Tommy made a difference in my life like he did so many others. I will miss him. My prayers to Brandy and the rest of his family and friends.
Kristal and Dan Rootes says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of Tommy’s family and friends. How much he will be missed by so many is a testimony to what an amazing guy he was. May God wrap your hearts with wonderful memories to to help you through your grief.
Jack Burns says
Prayers to all whom this young mans journey in life touched , Condolences to the families
MOON says
Thoughts, prayers & sincere condolences to Jr, Debbie n’ family. Tommy was a blast on Bowling nite in Forsyth. Him and JR cracked jokes all evening, win or lose it was always a great nite. Tommy’s best story, he told a few times, was when Tommee Dawn had took his free drink chips to school for show-n-tell. “MAN ON”! Sure gonna miss you buddy. Rest in peace
Rob, Michelle, Laila & Korslin Shot-Gunn says
Sending our prayers and sincere condolences to the family of Tommy. May God be with you during this very difficult time!
Tony and Dawn Altobelli says
May God wrap you in his loving arms and hold you in this very sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family and friends.
~Tony and Dawn ♥️♥️♥️
(Ramona Charette Klein’s daughter)
Fay Matheny says
Thinking of you and yours in this time of loss.
Rona says
Our sincere condolences to all his loved ones. May peace, comfort and strength find you all. We will see them again.
Dinny and Cindy Bennett says
Brandy, Tommee Dawn, Deb, JoniKay and Ollyana…Our hearts go out to all of you for the loss of Tommy and Junior. We are deeply saddened by their passings as they were wonderful people who thought of family first and themselves second. Please be comforted by the fact of the many people praying for all of you during this time and wishing you comfort. May God Bless you and see over you during this time of sorrow. God Bless all of you.
Garth Sleight says
I remember Tommy when he was a student at Miles Community College. I really enjoyed having him as a student. It is so heartbreaking to see him leave his family and friends much too soon. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Shelly Holum says
Thinking of yo@gmail
Shelly says
Thinking of you and yours in this time of loss.
Shirl Robinson says
So sorry to hear. Sincere condolences to the family and relatives. God’s peace and comfort throughout the coming days. God bless!
Alaina Buffalo Spirit says
My deepest condolences for the loss of a fine young man, May he Rest in the heavenly realm 🌺🌸🌼🌷💙
ML says
I only knew Tommy in passing from school, but it broke my heart to learn of this tragedy. Tommy was funny and charismatic, but also kind and wise beyond his years. That said, I’ll never forget him acting up in Spanish class…
May Tommy’s family heal and find peace. He deserved to grow old.