Marlon "Dean" Speak Thunder, "Amáȟbiya ohă Mani" (Walks in the Clouds), 62, passed away Friday, September 11, 2020, at Northern Montana Hospital due to natural causes. Dean began his journey on the day of his father's birthday. Daddy came after his boy, and now he is dancing with the angels.

Dean was born on June 27, 1958, in Fort Belknap to George and Evelyn (First Raised) Speak Thunder, where he was raised. He became a part of the New Horizon Activities Center in Harlem for many years, and most recently was at the Bullhook Home at the Havre Day Activities Center.

Dean lived his life for pow wows and rodeos. He was a champion bowler, winning many ribbons and trophies. He also competed in basketball and running in the Special Olympics. Dean was an honorary player of the Aaniiih Nakoda basketball Eagles team, and Gerald Stiffarm took him to many games up and down the Hi-Line. Dean also loved to rope, and you could always find him swinging one. He became quite the master at it, too! A high point for him was running in the Icebreaker in Great Falls with his great friends, Curtis and Ramona Horn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Evelyn Speak Thunder; brother, Donald Speak Thunder; and sister, Phyllis Speak Thunder.

Dean is survived by his siblings, Ronald, Lois, Verna, Leon, Leta (Swede Cole), Wilma Jo, Ben, and Donald Matthew Speak Thunder; together with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and so many friends and caregivers.

Due to the risk of COVID-19, no wake services will be held. A private family burial service will be held this week. Dean's family has suggested memorial donations be made in his memory to the Havre Day Activities Center or to the New Horizon Activities Center in Harlem. Holland & Bonine Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.