Crossing the Bar: Ga-a-woo-wuss (Coyote Bear), a.k.a. James Main, Sr., of the White Clay Nation

Jim Main Sr.., elder and warrior was an integral part in the founding and creation of IEN, and was a long term National Council member for IEN. He was also a member of the International Indigenous Treaty Council and the Grand Governing Council of the American Indian Movement. His teachings of wisdom and the memory of his humor and traditional songs will stay with us. 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.. 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 cemetery 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