In a heartbreaking turn of events, the community of Valentine, Nebraska, and the surrounding areas mourn the tragic loss of a beloved young man, Chase J. YellowHawk, who passed away on Monday, October 21, 2024. Chase, a vibrant 19-year-old with a bright future ahead of him, was a pillar of strength and joy for his family, friends, and community. His passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him, and the outpouring of grief and support from family, friends, and the wider community underscores the profound impact he had on those around him.
Chase YellowHawk, often described as a courageous and determined young man, inspired everyone who had the honor of knowing him. He was the kind of person who embodied resilience, loyalty, and a deep love for his family and friends. His tenacity in the face of life’s challenges served as a beacon of hope for others, reminding everyone around him that with perseverance and a strong heart, one can overcome adversity. His passing has sent shockwaves through the small town of Valentine, where he was known and loved, and his memory will continue to be cherished.
Chase was a student-athlete who brought spirit and pride to every event he participated in. His athleticism and dedication to his teammates made him a key figure in school sports. On the field, Chase was known for his competitive spirit, often pushing himself to the limits to achieve excellence. Off the field, he was equally admired for his generosity, warmth, and ability to lift others up. His coaches and teammates would often speak of his leadership qualities and his ability to rally everyone with his infectious optimism, regardless of the outcome of a game. The sports community in Valentine and across the state deeply mourns his passing, as Chase’s presence was one that motivated and inspired those around him to strive for their best.
Beyond his athletic accomplishments, Chase’s character was truly what made him special. Family and friends remember him as someone who never hesitated to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Whether he was helping his siblings with schoolwork, assisting neighbors with chores, or volunteering at community events, Chase always made an effort to give back to those who had supported him. His dedication to his community and his inherent kindness made him a figure who was loved by all, and his absence will be felt profoundly by those who depended on his friendship, love, and support.
The YellowHawk family is heartbroken over their loss, and the entire community is rallying around them during this incredibly difficult time. As a sign of solidarity, a Memorial Fund has been set up through Venmo to honor the life of Chase J. YellowHawk and provide financial assistance to his grieving family. The funds, which are being managed by Helen Paxton, are intended to ease the family’s burden during this challenging period, ensuring that they have the resources they need to honor Chase’s memory and cover the unexpected expenses that accompany such a tragic loss.
Those who wish to contribute to the Memorial Fund can do so by sending donations through Venmo, with all funds going directly to Chase’s family. The fundraiser has already gained significant attention, as people from all over the region have begun to contribute in remembrance of Chase’s remarkable life. His family has been deeply touched by the community’s outpouring of love and support, which has provided some solace amid their grief.
In addition to Venmo, memorial donations can also be mailed directly to Helen Paxton at PO Box 202, Onida, SD 57564. This direct option provides another way for those who may not have access to Venmo to still offer their financial support. Every donation, no matter the size, is appreciated and will help the family as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
As the community comes together to mourn and honor Chase, several memorial services and visitation events have been scheduled in his memory. On Saturday, October 26, 2024, a visitation will take place at 7 p.m. at Sully Buttes High School, located at 500 8th Street in Onida, South Dakota. This visitation will offer an opportunity for Chase’s friends, teachers, coaches, and community members to pay their respects and offer their condolences to his family. Sully Buttes High School has a special significance in Chase’s life, as it was a place where he excelled academically and athletically, earning the admiration and respect of his peers and educators alike.
Further visitation will be held on Sunday, October 27, and Monday, October 28, 2024, at the St. Francis Community Building, with services beginning at 7 p.m. each night. These visitations will allow the extended community and family from both Valentine, Nebraska, and the neighboring areas of South Dakota to gather together in shared grief and solidarity. The St. Francis community has long been intertwined with the YellowHawk family, and many people from nearby towns are expected to attend to pay their final respects to Chase.
The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, located on Oak Street in St. Francis, South Dakota. The service will begin at 10 a.m. and is expected to draw a large crowd, as people from across the region gather to honor the life and legacy of Chase YellowHawk. The funeral service will be a time of reflection, prayer, and remembrance, as those who knew and loved Chase celebrate his life and mourn the tremendous loss his passing represents.
The St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church holds deep personal significance for the YellowHawk family, and it is fitting that Chase’s final farewell will take place in a space filled with so much history and meaning. The church, known for its close-knit community and compassionate clergy, has been a source of comfort and strength for the family throughout this ordeal. Funeral attendees will have the chance to share stories, express their love, and offer their prayers for Chase and his grieving family.
In the days following Chase’s passing, tributes and remembrances have poured in from all corners of the community. Friends, classmates, and teammates have taken to social media to share their memories of Chase, highlighting his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those around him. Many of these tributes reflect the profound impact Chase had on the lives of those he met, with numerous people expressing how much he inspired them to be better, work harder, and never give up.
Teachers and coaches at Chase’s school have also shared their own remembrances of the young man, expressing their admiration for his hard work, leadership, and dedication. His passing has left an indelible mark on Sully Buttes High School, where his absence will be felt for years to come. The school is considering ways to honor Chase’s memory in the future, with discussions already underway about potentially establishing a scholarship fund in his name, which would help future students pursue their academic and athletic dreams.
As the community continues to grieve, the YellowHawk family has expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received. Though they are devastated by the loss of their beloved son, brother, and friend, they find comfort in knowing that Chase’s life touched so many people. They have asked for continued prayers as they navigate this difficult time and prepare to say their final goodbyes to Chase in the coming days.
In the wake of his passing, Chase J. YellowHawk leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, strength, and perseverance. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his story will continue to inspire others long after he is laid to rest. His family, friends, and community will carry forward his legacy of love, dedication, and determination, ensuring that the spirit of Chase YellowHawk remains a guiding light for all.
