BOMBER MEMORIAL
GALEN GERARD "PAK-NAH-GAA" WABAUNSEE ~ Class of 1972
July 7, 1954 - September 29, 2013
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of a great man. Galen "Pak-nah-gaa" Wabaunsee crossed over peacefully with family by his side on Sunday, September 29, 2013 in his 59th year.
Galen was a proud member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation and the son of Chief James Joseph "Paxico" Wabaunsee. He graduated wih the Class of 1972 from Richland's Columbia High School.
He is survived by wife, Sandra; daughters, Nicole Wabaunsee and Danielle Riley; "son", Anthony Riley; and Galen's adored grandchildren: granddaughter, Lauren; and grand boys: Ethan, Brendan and Owen Riley. He loved them dearly, and they will greatly miss their "Mo".
Galen also leaves five siblings: Nathan Wabaunsee, Carol Everett, James Wabaunsee ('72), Joseph Wabaunsee and Darlene "Doll" Wabaunsee; along with their beloved families.
He was greeted on the other side by his father and mother, James J. and Evelyn Keesis Wabaunsee; his Misho and Nokmes' and his many "Furry Friends".
Galen cherished the memories, laughter and love of those around him, both near and far. Many remember Galen by his bellowing, infectious laughter and his warm hugs. Often you could hear him telling jokes and laughing with those he loved. He was also remembered for his willingness to continually keep his family, friends and neighbor's cars on the road. Repairing and restoring old cars was a lifelong hobby for him. He also enjoyed camping, shooting guns and fishing with loved ones.
He spent his final night at a Wabaunsee gathering where he enjoyed his favorite food, "Aunt Carol's" famous Indian Fry Bread tacos.
We will all miss Galen dearly; but as we know "To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die".
A "Celebration of Life" was held Friday, October 4, 2013 at 3:00 pm at Faith Assembly, 1800 N. Road 72 in Pasco. A reception followed.
Galen was buried at Desert Lawn Memorial Park in Kennewick.
Published in the Tri-City Herald on October 1, 2013.
Bomber Memorial put together by Shirley COLLINGS Haskins ('66).