Gary Cavender

Sungi (Red Fox) Gary Clyde Cavender was born Cankapopawi (Tree Popping Moon-December) Wikcemna Num Sam Yamni (23rd) Opawinge Akenapcinwanka Sam Wikcemnayamni Sam Napcinwanka (1939). The son of Verna Cavender-Ross, he was raised by his Unkan and Kunsi (William and Eliza Cavender) of Pejihutazizi Oyanke Granite Falls, Minnesota. He was a Great-Grandson of Inyan Mani Hoksida (Running Walker Boy) of Wahpetunwan leader Inyang Mani (Running Walker) and Mazaokiyewin (One who talks to iron the daughter of Wahpetuwan leader Mazomani (Iron Walker). Gary entered the Navy in 1961 and reenlisted in the Air Force in 1965 as a Crypto-radio operator serving 3 tours of duty in Vietnam where he operated near the China border as a Larp. He left the military due to his injuries. Gary resided in Minneapolis where he met his wife Irene. They were foster parents to several Indian children. Gary attended the University of Minnesota where he received a degree in geriatric psychology and where he taught for several years. He attended United Theological Seminary and earned a degree in Comparative Spiritualities and religion. He served as an Episcopal Priest in Minneapolis, Prairie Island, Morton, Shakopee and Omaha, Nebraska. Gary and Irene returned to Granite Falls 3 years ago. At his home in Granite Falls, Gary passed away surrounded by his family. He was 69 years old. Cherishing his memory are his wife Irene, their children: Robin (Ward) Emery of Minneapolis, Chris (Amy) Oak Grove of Granite Falls, Isaac Cavender of Granite Falls, Steve Smith of Minneapolis, grandchildren, great grandchild, and siblings: Carolynn Schommer Aunt-mother, Tom (Maureen) Ross, Richard (Stephanie) Ross, Elroy (Jill) Ross, James (Nikkie) Ross, Joe Sam (Kristi) Ross, Diana Cavender, Marlys (James) Fluto, Candy (Chuck) Hamilton, Carol Blackhawk and Geri Standing Bear as well as many extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents Verna & Rufus Ross, his brother John Ray Ross and granddaughters Lindsay and Cortney Cavender.