Kenny Black Bird

June 3, 1948 - August 9, 2015

Kenneth Charles Blackbird was born at Pierre, SD on June 3, 1948 to Elmer and Mabel (Veaux) Blackbird. In his early years he lived on the Cheyenne River Reservation and then his parents relocated to other areas. After high school he entered the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war. Upon completion of his service time he was honorably discharged. He continued his education and received a college Associates Degree. He married Nieko Kim Nelson on June 11, 1991 at Ft. Duchense, UT. He then became a police officer with the BIA and worked in law enforcement for many years. Some of Kenneth’s interest included working with horses and doing outside work and fishing. Attending powwows was very much a part of his social life and his younger years he was a legendary fancy dancer. He was baptized Episcopalian and also was a Sundancer and he attended the Native American Church. He is survived by his wife, Neiko of Ft. Duchesne, UT and children: Marisa (Jesse) Terronez, TX, Maurice (Ashleen) Blackbird, Rosalie, NE, Marcel (Belle) Blackbird, Winnebago, NE, Kennetha (Roger) Whitebear, Walthill, NE, Mariko (Kyle Osborne) Blackbird, Ft. Duchesne (F.D.) Kameko Blackbird, F.D., Wi-He-Jhi-Ga Blackbird, F.D. Marietta (Marty) Trujillo, F.D., Steven Lucero, Vernal, UT Jacinda (Shannon Jackson) Lucero, Gr. Junction, CO Tirrell (Jaelyn Ross) Lucero, Roosevelt. 21 grand children and 2 on the way, 2 Great-grandchildren Brothers: Russell (Ann) Blackbird, Ignacio, CO, Gene Blackbird, Tama, IA, and sister: Ida Walker , Nebraska He was preceded in death: daughter, Memoree Blackbird and brother, Steven Ray Blackbird. A one night wake begins at 4:00 PM, Wednesday, August 12, 2015 at the H.V. Johnston Cultural Center. Prayer service begins at 7:00 PM and Military Roll Call begins after. Funeral services begin at 10 AM, Thursday, August 13, 2015 at the H.V. Johnston Cultural Center, with the Mother Margaret Watson officiating. Traditional Prayers will be offered by Mr. Rufus White. Burial will follow at the Promise Cemetery, Promise, SD. Arrangements have been entrusted to Rooks & Annis Funeral Home of Eagle Butte, SD.