Glenn R Gopher

Glenn Robert Gopher “Day Time Thunderbird”, 69, passed away on March 22, 2022. A wake will be held at the Little Shell Cultural Center starting on Friday, March 25th at 9:30am. A service will be held on Saturday, March 26th at 2pm. His final resting place will be at Highland Cemetery in Great Falls.

Glenn was born on August 14th, 1952, to Robert and Dorothy Gopher in Great Falls, Montana. Glenn spent his childhood here, taking in the culture from his family from the Little Shell Tribe. As a baby, his grandmother taught him to speak Ojibwa. This passion for his heritage followed him into adulthood.

After graduating from high school, Glenn joined the Marine Corps, but eventually landed back in Great Falls. He was a crew boss, asbestos remover, and spent many years as a Montana Indian Firefighter.

Glenn met and married the love of his life, Rose, in Great Falls, marrying on May 23rd, 1984. They shared 3 children and 38 years together.

A man who was proud of his culture, Glenn practiced as an active spiritual and cultural leader, fluently speaking both Ojibwa and Cree. He mentored many people in the local native community and was a world class pow wow dancer, especially enjoying round dance and singing during the sun dance ceremony. He was a pipe carrier and ran the sweat lodge.

Glenn’s love for his heritage defined how he spent his free time. He enjoyed beading and making jewelry with his wife, sweating with family and friends, and attending ceremonies throughout Montana and Canada. He also appreciated time spent watching football and basketball.

Glenn was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Jim Loud Thunder Gopher and Mary Chippewa; brothers Gerald and Thane Gopher; sister Miranda Gopher; and daughter Celsa Umtuch.

He is survived by his loving wife Rose Gopher; daughters Shawnda Lefthand and Melanie Gopher; brothers Mike and Blair Gopher; sisters Melinda Conway and Mary Gopher-Parenteau; as well as six grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

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