It is with deepest sorrow and heartbreak that we announce the death of our precious son, husband, father, brother and nephew Eugene “Gene” Dwight Bigsoldier III.
Gene was born on April 12, 1994, to Danielle Cass and Eugene Bigsoldier II. He was the light of his grandparent’s eyes, the best friend of his grandpa Dan, and his grandma Marion’s baby. Guided by his mother Danielle, stepfather Nate McCartney, and his uncle Bruce Cass, Gene would grow from a rambunctious and ornery child to a kind and compassionate man. The eldest of his siblings, Gene would affectionately be called “Bubba” by his brother Tristian and sisters Tennessee, Landon, Marion, and Embers. He was the best big brother, taking care of his siblings, and giving them endless laughs and wonderful memories, along with a few bruises over the years as he used them for wrestling practice. He will remain a guiding light and source of inspiration in their lives.
Gene made an instant impact on everyone who met him. He was funny and tender-hearted, kind, and strong. A friend to many, Gene was often the life of the party, he had a smile that could light up a room, he could tell a joke or do something silly to put a smile on your face. His hugs were the best, you could tell they came right from his soul. He was also a quiet, reserved, and thoughtful individual, caring about and for others.
Growing up in Pawhuska, OK, Gene was raised in and was an active member of the Osage community. Gene was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved sports. His high school years were filled with wrestling matches and football games. Gene was a 2012 Ormand Beach award winner and a 2012 graduate of Pawhuska High School, Gene had lifelong “Huskie Pride”.
Gene adored his wife Hunter and his two beautiful daughters Maida and Vivvy. Hunter adored him and loved him unconditionally for the wonderful husband and man that he was. They filled his life with joy and love. He was a thoughtful, selfless, and caring husband and father. His girls were loved immeasurably by him, he loved hard and without reservation. He will forever be in their hearts and minds.
The loss of Gene has left a huge hole in the lives of his family and friends, but we are comforted in knowing that he is at peace in the hands of the lord, surrounded by his loved ones who have gone before him.
Gene is preceded in death by his grandfather Edward Lee Cass; grandmother Terri Gillett; grandfather Gene Bigsoldier; great-grandparents Dan and Marion Cass; and great-grandparents Susie Starr and Bruce Cosby.
Gene is survived by his wife Hunter; daughters Maida and Vivvy; his mother Danielle Cass; stepfather Nate McCartney (Ashley); his brother Tristian McCartney (Jordyn) and niece Stella Mae; sisters Tennessee, Landon, Marion and Embers, uncle Bruce Cass (Morgan) and cousins Corlin, Logan, William, Kaleb, and Alyssa; his nonnie Deanna Beserra; grandmother Debbie Hoffman; aunt Marcia Lynn; sisters Gabrielle and Gianna Bigsoldier; and his father Eugene Bigsoldier III.
A traditional Osage service will be held at 8 a.m. on September 21, 2023, at Wakon Iron Hall followed by a 10 a.m. service at Oren Terril Field House. A traditional Osage meal will follow the services at Wakon Iron Hall, prepared by his head cook Margie Williams and the additional cooks who loved him completely.
Fly free Gene, we love you so very much.