Richard Dick Thunder Chief

RICHARD DICK THUNDER CHIEF (DAY CHIEF)

NAPINAMSKAA “OLD MAN THUNDER PIPE HOLDER”

APRIL 11, 1944 - FEBRUARY 15, 2015

Richard Dick Thunder Chief (Day Chief) of the Blood Indian Reserve, beloved husband of Geraldine Thunder Chief, was called home to the creator surrounded by his loving family and friends on Sunday, February 15, 2015 at the age of 70 years.

Richard leaves to mourn his loving wife and best friend of 49 years, Geraldine, and their children Ron (Kelly), Rich Jr. (Gail) and Lorna; Grandchildren Kalib (Jade), Chet, Drayton, Nakoda, Kyanni, Mackenzie, Hunter, Taylor, Royce and Skye (Wilfred); his only Great Grandson “Baby Ricky;” Adopted children include: Karen, Harley, Stephanie, Tessie, Marvin, Christie, Cynthia, Caroline and Marlon Young Pine, Verna Delaney, Dallas Houghton, Chickory Black Water, Jana Day Chief, Belinda Bull Shoe and Barbara Day Chief; adopted Grandchildren Whitney, Larmer and Dryden; Godchildren Desi Creighton and Ryan Standing Alone; Brothers Evans (Patty), Ivan (Juanita), Horace (Dolly), Sheldon and sisters Gloria, Dorothy, Theda (Floyd) and Carol (Natashia); “Special Brothers” Harrison Shade, Harrison Wolfchild, Tom Crane Bear, Gilbert Provost and “Best Man,” Del Healy Sr. as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and their families

Richard attended the St. Mary’s Residential School, returning home to work along side his dad tending to his horses and cattle. He was proud of his father Dick who was a major influence in his life, crediting him with instilling a strong work ethic and ideals of family, generosity and trust. Richard joined his father at many hand game tournaments and rodeos where Dick entered into calf roping, which lead him to his passion for the rodeo, entering many events which included saddle bronc, steer wrestling, team roping and calf roping. Richard also played with the Ole Yellers Hockey Club and Inatso Basketball Team.