Bear, Mary E.

To all the Children, Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren Brothers and sisters nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles of Gramma Mary. My sincere condolences for the loss of an Arapaho Elder who loved and cared for her family and her people. I became the adopted brother of Vincent L. YellowBear Sr. many years ago and Gramma took me as a son, treating me accordingly. My wife and children all knew and loved Gramma Mary.

I will miss her kind and generous spirit, her gentle wisdom and the spirit that she brought with her into each and every setting.

Last time I saw her we had just finished a sweatlodge at Vincents House and she was sitting in her chair near the table at his house. We had some soup and frybread and in turn each one of my children gave Gramma a hug and told her they loved her. She always remembered their names. As I write this I am wearing a sweater of Red, Black White and Yellow she knitted for me 15 years ago and can feel the warmth of her loving touch. I am glad Gramma is with the creator now and smiling at each one of us. Love and Hugs to all,

Bob, Tere, Billy, Buddy and Alex Bragg

Love You Grandma from your Sioux Woman.