February 21, 1938 – April 16, 2021
Joseph A. Lends His Horse Sr., 83, of Eagle Butte passed away April 16, 2021 at Monument Health in Rapid City. Due to COVID restrictions, the family is holding a private, family-only service followed by a military burial at Black Hills National Cemetery at Sturgis.
Joseph Andrew Lends His Horse was born to William and Mary (Longie) Lends His Horse on February 21, 1938 at the Old Cheyenne Agency. He attended school at Eagle Butte and Gettysburg. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from 1957 through 1959 on the USS Atule as a Radar Man.
Joe was joined in marriage to Alvina (Beanie) Baker in 1960 and they spent 43 years together until her death in 2003. They raised five children and were present in the lives of their many grandkids and great-grandkids. Joe took great pride in being a “cowboy.” He grew up ranching and was very proud to rope well enough that he earned a buckle. He was a naturally gifted artist. He spent many years playing stringed instruments and singing in bands. He was a leather smith who enjoyed designing and tooling belts, billfolds, and saddles.
Joe’s true passion was education. He received degrees from Presentation College in Aberdeen, Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, and Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. He was devoted to promoting and working in educational institutions as an administrator and instructor. He was proud to serve as a college President at several colleges across the country.
His strength, wisdom, guidance and especially humor will be truly missed. After his wife’s passing in 2003, his daughter, Charlene, became his primary caretaker and spent the last 18 years witnessing and relaying his stories that filled his family with laughter.
Joseph is survived by his children: Joe Lends His Horse Jr., Charlene Lends His Horse, Madonna (Humphrey) Long, Lou (Trina) Lends His Horse, and Wally Lends His Horse; grandchildren and greatgrandchildren too numerous to list; and two great great-grandchildren, Katai (Tyra/Kaytonna) and Tristan (Trinity/Trevor).
Luce Funeral Home of Gettysburg is in charge of arrangements.