The Passing of one of the Greats: James Main Sr. began his journey to the Spirit World on January 29th 2009.
Ga-a-woo-wuss (Coyote Bear), a.k.a. James Main, Sr., of the White Clay Nation died peacefully in his sleep at approximately 4:30 a.m. on January 29, 2009. His hard-fought battle with End-Stage Congestive Heart Failure over the past several years finally took its toll about two weeks ago.
Like a true warrior, he did not go down easily, but went with honor and dignity. To the end, he maintained his humor, making those around him laugh…and cry as he used his dwindling strength to sing, talk Indian, pray, and tell of old times. Always at the center of his heart and spirit was the survival of the Red Nations.
Jim Main Sr., was a co-founder, long-time Board member and elder advisor of the International Indian Treaty Council. He was also a co-founder of the White Clay Society and the Indigenous Environmental Network, and was a proud member of the American Indian Movement. Jim was a respected advisor, guide and mentor to many organizations and activists working to defend human rights, sacred places, Treaty rights and Indigenous ways of life around the world. His teachings of wisdom and the memory of his humor and traditional songs will stay with us.
It is an overwhelmingly sad day for his loved ones here on earth, but truly a victorious day for a warrior who is so deserving of the peace, love, and acceptance he will meet as all our relatives take him to his rightful place in the spirit world, known as the “Big Sands” to the White Clay people.
Wake services will be held Saturday, January 31 beginning at 5:00 p.m. at his residence in Hays, Montana.
Traditional services will be held Sunday, February 1 at 1:00 p.m. followed by burial at the family cemetary in Big Warm, Montana.
If you would like to make a contribution to the family at this time - Please Contact:
Rose Main: 406.390.5350 (mobile), 406.673.3013 (home)
James Main, Sr.'s residence: 406.673.3813
William "Snuffy" Main: 406.945.7349
Harold "Jiggs" Main: 406.262.3041
James Main, Sr. at his home on the Ft. Belknap Reservation in Montana, photo taken by Brenda Norrell
