Obituary of Michael Hotain

HOTAIN: Michael Hotain (Isna Chaske) passed onto the spirit world in the early hours of February 14th, 2013 lovingly surrounded by his family. He was predeceased by his grandfather Henry Hotain, grandmother Millie Hotain, father Matthew Allen Pratt, mother Agnes Hall, brothers Ronald and Elroy, sisters Lorna, Leona and Rosemarie, sons Lance and Tyson and daughter Crystal. He leaves to mourn his daughters Trudy (Oswald), Michelle (Hawk), Harlene (Hugh), Marti Rose and sons Sonny (Pauline), Monte and Brett (Melissa). He also leaves to mourn his grandchildren, great grandchildren and many extended relatives. Mike's passing leaves a great loss in his family and community and he will be remembered as a man with a strong sense of humour, who was respectful, traditional, humble, caring and a loving Dakota man. His life is a testament of his love for the Dakota way of life and he shared this through his teachings, language, songs, stories and life on the pow-wow trail. Mike was no stranger to struggles and he faced them with courage and strength. His illness and complications never brought down his spirit rather he utilized the power of prayer to persevere. We as a family are thankful and will continue to honour his memory by practicing and teaching our children and future generations these same qualities and characteristics. We are comforted in knowing that Dad is now with his love our Mom who passed away seven years ago, he talked often of their life together and the memories they created. The family wishes to thank the staff of the Dakota Oyate Lodge for their kindness and compassion in their caring for Dad, friends and relatives who came to visit and wished him well from afar – your heartfelt condolences are greatly appreciated. A traditional wake will be held on Sunday, February 17, 2013 at 5:00 p.m. followed by a funeral service on Monday, February 18, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. Interment at the Hehaka Sica/Elk Family Cemetery. Traditional services will be conducted by Eyapahan's Percy Tacan and Mark Hall. Reverend Dave Thiessen will officiate the funeral service. The family welcomes all who wish to pray, sing and share throughout the wake and funeral. In the Dakota way there is no goodbye, we will see each other once again. "There is no death only a change of worlds", Chief Seattle