Funeral

Just got back from Lame Deer, MT for funeral for Gail Tallwhiteman. Kyle and Jana went with Dad and I. It was a fast trip, but very rewarding. The town treated us with much love and kindness. We saw the tribe in a time of sadness, but also saw a unity the was unmatched for people who had little material things. The funeral service was a combination of Catholic and Cheyenne. Even the Priest (who really seemed a Deacon)was very kind to us. We were especially sad to see the LDS Church boarded up and chain link fence surrounding it.

The cemetery was a Tallwhiteman cemetery. It was on a lovely hill top with pine, wild flowers and sage growing. It was already occupied by Gail's 3 Sisters and a brother; two sisters and the brother had died of alchoholism and Gail and another sister, of Lupus. For people who had little material things they showed us kindness and love. We found that they treated us as their family (We think the entire town is related!) I even was invited to speak at her services. The Cheyenne chants and talks in their native language were very interesting!

We found a few that came up and told us that they had lived with the Schwendimans, Perks, Mackey, and Homer families! I asked if it had helped their lives. They all said yes! I know Heavenly Father loves these people and wish the Gospel was part of their lives. Love, Mom