Legacies and future plans

A former St. Joseph’s Indian School employee, Peggy, died at the age of 92. Her son Mike works on campus as our custodian, and I was asked to lead the funeral services. For many years Peggy was the public face of our Thrift Store on St. Joseph’s Indian School’s campus, who enjoyed interacting with all the people who passed her way. At 92, she outlived many of her peers, and the “friends” side of the church had only a handful of people. But the “family” side was filled with a vast number of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. I was struck by how one life, especially a mother’s life, can touch so many others and leave a legacy of love and care.

Our four high school seniors are finalizing their plans for the fall. D’Kera and Erin have been accepted to South Dakota State in Brookings, South Dakota. D’Kera will first spend some training time in the Army Reserves. Danisha plans to attend Dakota State in Madison, South Dakota. She also got word today that she was accepted for a summer internship at Crazy Horse Monument. While there she will earn college credit to get her off to a good start. Nick is still undecided about his post high school plans are, but would like to study business and accounting.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

4 thoughts on “Legacies and future plans”

  1. It is always so exciting to me to hear about the plans our young people have for their future…whether they are still considering exactly what they want to do, or they have their plans all firmed up…it’s thrilling to think of their futures!!!

  2. I am sure Peggy is resting in our Lord’s arms.
    Good luck to D’Kera, Erin and Nick. Great opportunity for Erin…way to go “kids” God Bless

  3. My prayers go out to Peggy, her family, and her extended family. I did not personally know her, but if she was associated with SJIS, I know she had to be a good and loving person.

    To all the graduating seniors, I wish you luck and prosperity in which ever field or path of further schooling you choose.

  4. One never knows how he or she will impact anothers life. A kind word, a smile, just listening all touch someone else in ways we on this side of Heaven will never know about. God’s Blessings on Peggy and our condolences to the family.
    Congratulations to the graduates, especially Erin, who we met in a Naples, Fl luncheon several years ago. We will continue to pray for you and all the children of the Lakota school.
    Our love and prayers,
    Rick and Arleen Graham

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