Nicholas "Nick" Benjamin Western Boy

Nicholas “Nick” “Thuŋkášitku Ičáhda Máni” Benjamin Western Boy (Owen), age 44, of Prairie Island, began his journey to the Star Nation suddenly, surrounded by family. He left this earth the same way he entered it — in ceremony. Nick was born on August 11, 1981, in Red Wing, Minnesota, to Michael Owen and Robin Bohmbach. He earned his GED from the Prairie Island Learning Center and later united in marriage with Billie Jo Holy Rock.

Nick was a self-taught historian and scholar with a deep love of learning. He generously shared his knowledge with family and loved ones, and family was always at the center of his life. He possessed a rare kind of loyalty — the kind you only encounter once in a lifetime. He was the perfect balance of funny and soft-hearted, someone who could make people laugh while making them feel safe. Nick held a profound love for the Dakota people. He believed deeply in the language and taught himself to understand it. As a young man, when he began Sun Dancing, he sought guidance and mentoring from his uncles, Scotty and Joe Brown Eyes, and his “hero,” Ivan Starr. As a true Dakota, he lived by the belief of being a relative to all — even to those who may not have been kind. He was actively involved with the Prairie Island Sun Dance and worked in the Buffalo Pasture for ten years. Nick dedicated 15 years of work to Knutson Construction, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability.

As a young boy, Nick had a special relationship with his Uncle Ray, who took him in. Nick carried that way of life forward — taking in children and loving all kids as his own. He hosted family dinner at his home every Tuesday and taught his boys the sacred songs in preparation for days like this. Nick was a devoted Minnesota sports fan who knew all the stats. He also enjoyed playing softball and started the “Hostiles” team, playing alongside many of his brothers. In his free time, he enjoyed trips to Florida and the beach, street racing, car shows, and golfing.

Nick is survived by his wife, Billie Jo Western Boy; his mother, Robin Bohmbach; his daughters, Jada and Jaysalynn; and his sons, Derrick and Lloyd. He was an Ate to Cody, Savannah, Tristyn, Mason, Kennesey, Brandon Jr., and Lane. He is also survived by his sisters, Jenny and Corey; and his brothers, Alex, Brandon, Champ, Kyle, Austin, Barry, Keith, and Juan. Nick is also survived by his takožas Zayden, Koah, Zion, Keya, Anthony, Echo, Owen, and Jade.

Nick was welcomed home by his father, Mike; his grandparents Dixie & Arvin, Amos & Ione; Ivan & Goldie “the big guy” Joe Brown Eyes; his uncles Art, Duffy, and Floyd; his aunts, Linda and Toni; his niece, Shelby; Nephew Tayden and his brothers, Jack and Bill.

He prayed his way home.