CURLY BEAR WAGNER
By Jim Foster
“There is no death, only a change of worlds.” – Chief Seattle
During my life stories and recounts of how and where things happened have been important Especially during the early days of this country. The telling of a story is an art and one of the best has now experienced a change of worlds.
I was saddened to learn of the passing of my friend Curly Bear Wagner this past Thursday at the Browning hospital on the Blackfeet Reservation in Montana. He was in his 64th year.
Curly Bear worked to establish the “Native America Speaks” interpretive program at Glacier National Park and often presented the program to park visitors. This were where I first met curly Bear who had an ability to connect with his audience, especially children, who seemed drawn to his natural personality and stories from the elders of his people.
Wagner interviewed Blackfeet tribal elders, recording their stories, and worked to preserve sites considered sacred by the tribe.
“My family and tribe instilled in me a great love and respect for my culture. For over twenty-five years I have participated in Blackfeet ceremonies and rituals, most recently as a member of the traditional society of Crazy Dogs.” wrote Curly Bear.
Curly Bear was one of the Blackfeet leaders who worked to bring the remains of his and other nations remains back to where they belong from the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.
Anyone who heard his stories and felt his love of the land and his people know what we have lost.
May his quiver always be full, his bow strong, his path be smooth, game be plentiful, and may he always walk with kind and gentle souls.
If you have news or comments about this or other articles Jim's Email is jim@jimfosteroutdoors.com
