Obituary of Alden Pompana

POMPANA: On the early morning of Saturday, August 30, 2014, Alden Elmer Pompana "Tatanka Nagi" passed away. His loving wife and family were by his side. Alden was born June 2, 1938 at Oak River Reserve (Sioux Valley Dakota Nation) to parents Thomas and Susan Pompana (Hall). Due to his poor health as an infant and young child, Alden didn't attend residential school (Elkhorn and Brandon) until he was older. Upon leaving, Alden spent several years soul searching and reflecting on his experiences in residential school. Later, Alden returned to Brandon residential school where he served as a supervisor for the children. It was also here that he met his "chante skuya" (sweetheart) Elsie, and started his family of four children. Alden spent several years working in various capacities and then he made a choice to lead a healthier lifestyle for himself and his family. A life skills counselling course led to a lifelong career as a drug and alcohol counsellor. Alden devoted his life to the Sundance Ceremony, and the Powwow Trail. He was an avid hockey fan, and he enjoyed fishing, traveling, hunting, taking pictures, and shopping for knickknacks. Alden is survived by his wife of 47 years, Elsie, his children Pam (Mark), Tiffany (Jason), Alden Jr., and Delores (Michael) and eleven grandchildren. His sister Muriel Banhegy and brother Calvin Pompana and several nieces and nephews. Alden was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Susan Pompana, and his siblings Barry, Delores, Roderick, Lucy, Mervin, Reginald, Arnold, and Walter, as well as grandson Vernon Ruml. A traditional wake and service will be held at the Veterans Hall in Sioux Valley beginning at 5:00pm Wednesday, September 3, 2014. Closing prayers will be held Thursday, September 4, 2014, with interment at the Anglican Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Kenny Pratt Jr., Clarence George, Michael Gabbard, Jason Goodstriker, Garrett Henry, Jason Taylor, Gary Gott, and Freddy Eastman Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be: Mark Hall, Carl Mazawasicuna, Frank Hall, Danny Seaboy, Joe Monroe, Aaron McKay, Bob Wasicuna, Percy Tacan, Gordon Taylor, Bill Taylor and Bruce Sandy.