Washington, D.C. – March 31, 2025 – The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) is profoundly saddened to announce the passing of Ron His Horse Is Thunder, former Chairman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and an esteemed leader whose unwavering dedication to tribal education and advocacy for Native American rights significantly impacted Indian Country. He left us on March 27, 2025.

Ernie Stevens Jr., Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, expressed his deep sorrow: “Ron was a true Indian Country Warrior and a pillar of strength for our communities. He was a great friend and mentor to me. His tireless work in education and advocacy was instrumental in advancing the rights of Indian Country. We have lost a champion for our people, but his legacy will endure in the countless lives he touched and the progress he fought for. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who knew him.”

A proud descendant of Sitting Bull and a member of the Hunkpapa Lakota tribe, Ron’s remarkable journey began at Standing Rock Community College, where he laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to advocating for the rights of Native Americans. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of South Dakota School of Law, which paved the way for him to assume pivotal roles that shaped the educational landscape of tribal colleges.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ron served as president of Sitting Bull College, the American Indian College Fund, and Little Hoop Community College, ultimately becoming the Chairman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in 2005. His influential work extended beyond local leadership, as he served as a commissioner for the Higher Learning Commission and as chairman of the President’s Board of Advisors on Tribal Colleges and Universities, appointed by President George W. Bush.

In his later years, Ron established a consulting firm with his wife, Deborah, and played a crucial role in stabilizing Little Priest Tribal College in Nebraska. His commitment to community and education was unwavering, reflecting a legacy of service that will be cherished by those he inspired.

Ron was a devoted family man, leaving behind his wife Deborah, four biological children: Josi Halfred-Mendoza, Ron (aka Little Ron) His Horse Is Thunder, Wiyaka Wastewin His Horse Is Thunder, and Akitcita Cistila His Horse Is Thunder; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He married Deborah Wetsit in 2003, further expanding his family with sons Rick Desjarlais and Koshon LaCounte (Nikki), daughters Cher Old Elk (Leon) and Michelle Desjarlais, and fourteen additional grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Ron cherished his roles as husband, father, and grandfather, bringing joy and value to his extensive family.

Ron is survived by his mother, Ina McNeil; father, Joseph McNeil, Sr.; siblings Alan McNeil (Shirley), Jacqueline Jackson (Robert), Joseph McNeil Jr. (Sheridan), and Frank McNeil (Dawn). He is preceded in death by his daughter, Josephine. In this time of mourning, the family acknowledges that their circle is vast, and they apologize if any names have been inadvertently missed.

A four-day feast and ceremony in memory of Ron will be held at the Wolf Point Community Hall, starting on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 2:00 to 6:00 PM. Additional services are planned for Friday, April 4th, including a Lay-In-State at the Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Headquarters and evening wake services at the AJ Agard Community Building in Fort Yates, North Dakota. Burial services will occur on Saturday, April 5th, at the AJ Agard Building, followed by burial at the Messiah Church gravesite in Little Eagle, South Dakota. Service and burial arrangements will be updated as the dates approach.

The Indian Gaming Association extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ron His Horse Is Thunder during this challenging time. His lasting legacy will continue to resonate throughout Indian Country for generations.