Obituary of Merle Joan Hapa

~Hayetun Wakan Wi~

Merle Joan Hapa passed away in Billings, Montana on Wednesday, October 7, 2020 from complications due to Covid-19.  She was born on September 2, 1957 in Oak River, MB.  Merle was a registered member of the Sioux Valley Dakota First Nation in Manitoba. 

She was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth Bell and Herman Hapa; daughter Terri Lynn Noel; son Desmond Poorbear; sisters Victoria Antoine and Vivian White; and brothers Chaske Hapa, Herbert Hapa, Carl Essie and Frank Hapa. Merle is survived by children Sheldon Emory Noel (Keisha), April Noel (Woody), Danielle Rose Poorbear (Murray), and Delaney Poorbear (Matowin); sisters Winona Boyd, Flora Kaye, and Gwen Hapa; brother Raymond White; and numerous nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. A private family service will be held. 

Merle liked listening to and singing gospel songs, travelling, and being around friends and family. She was one of the kindest and most giving women you could meet. She had many friends. Merle was a much loved mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend.