May 16, 1942 – March 14, 2021
On March 14, 2021, Senator Melvin Littlecrow was called home to the Spirt World. Left to mourn are his children Steven, Kevin, Rachel, Diane, Curtis and Janet; brothers David & Leslie, Sisters Emma, Freda & Lucille, numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren and many, many friends.
In a small log cabin located on the Whitecap Dakota First Nation (WDFN), Melvin Littlecrow was born on May 16, 1942. As a young boy, he spent most of his time with his late grandfather, Harry Littlecrow. At the young age of 5, his grandfather began teaching him how to respect, train, ride and break horses. Melvin has never forgotten these teachings from his grandfather and has passed these teachings down to his children and grandchildren. Horses have always been a part of his life. From 1975 to 2012, his passion was to train and race horses in chuck-wagon and chariot races that took him to countless little towns and numerous First Nation communities to participate in their sports days. In recognition of his dedication and commitment to the sport of Chuckwagon & Chariot racing, the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) awarded him the “Circle of Honor Indian Government Lifetime Achievement Award”. In 2000, Melvin established Littlecrow Stables and has left 13 horses to also mourn his passing. The horse life was his way of life.
For many of his younger years, Melvin was a reinforcing iron worker. His sons and grandsons also followed in his footsteps and are currently employed in that trade. Later, he served as a Councillor for WDFN, Advisory Committee member to the Office of the Chief, Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation Board Member, just to name a few. In 2007, the Saskatoon Tribal Council appointed Melvin to the Senate of the FSIN. During this time, he became very good friends with Senator George Peeace and Senator Pat Johnstone.
Melvin was a respected Elder, fluent in the Dakota language and carried on the traditional and cultural ways of the Dakota people as taught to him by his grandfather. He generously shared his knowledge on the history of WDFN as well as the cultural and traditional teachings with his family, friends, community and various organizations including the Western Development Museum. Over the years, the WDFN leadership relied on his guidance and advice in building the Nation and moving the community forward. Special thanks to Chief Darcy Bear for always being there for Melvin.
Throughout the years, Melvin overcame many obstacles including divorce, alcoholism, quintuple bypass heart surgery, diabetes and renal failure. In 1986, Melvin decided to live a sober life and showed his children that addictions can indeed be overcome. Today his children also live a sober life. He was the best role model as he lived his life by example. He was a straight talker and didn’t mince words at the same time showing his kindness. Right up to his passing his mind was sharp, he was witty, had an awesome sense of humor and was very generous.
Predeceased by … Parents Andrew and Jessie Littlecrow, brothers Wilbert Littlecrow, Francis Littlecrow, Edgar Littlecrow, sister Wilma Chatsis, daughter Maxine Bear, son Roland Villeneuve and grandchildren Devon and Donavon Bear.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to all those that cared for him, provided care to him and helped make his life comfortable as he dealt with his health issues.
Special mentions to the following:
WDFN Chief & Council
WDFN Health Centre
Lorne, Clayton, William and Darwin Waditika
Nancy Linklater & Ron Thompson
Lyndon J. & Terri Bear-Linklater
Teedly & Blue Jay Linklater
Doreen and Don Lavallee
Bayshore Nursing
Dr. Chance Dumaine, Nurse Clinicians and many of the nurses at the St. Paul’s Renal unit
Saskatoon Tribal Council Tribal Chief, Mark Arcand and member Chiefs
Dakota Dunes Golf Links Mike Jacobs, GM
Elmer Eagle
Public Viewing: All COVID-19 provincial restrictions will be followed.
Date: Wednesday, March 17, 2021
Time: 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Location: Acadia McKague’s Funeral Centre
915 Acadia Drive, Saskatoon, SK
Private family wake and service will follow. Arrangements in care of Mandi Wersch – Acadia-McKague’s Funeral Centre. 306.955.1600
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