In Loving Memory of
Hoksila Royal Running Bear
“Smoke”
Lakota Name: Wambli Hoksila Kokepesni (“Eagle Boy Not Afraid of Anything”)
February 12, 2007 – October 26th, 2025
Hoksila Royal Running Bear, lovingly known as Smoke or Hokie, 18, of Mandan, North Dakota, passed away far too soon in a tragic event on October 26th, 2025. He was born on February 12, 2007, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to Brittney Arnett and Raymond Running Bear. Hoksila was also the cherished stepson of Jen Archambault, and adored grandson of Elizabeth Mayqoumenbenais- Jones and Delores Hollow.
From the moment he was born, Hoksila filled his mother’s heart with light, laughter, and purpose. The bond between mother and son was unshakable, a love that grew stronger with every smile, every hug, and every word they shared. To Brittney, he wasn’t just her son; he was her best friend, her protector, and the heartbeat of her world. Even now, that love remains infinite, unbroken, and everlasting.
Hoksila, whose Lakota name means Eagle Boy Not Afraid of Anything, lived courageously and joyfully. From the time he was small, Hoksila’s fearless spirit shined. He was one of the greatest little Cowboy Grass Dancers, graceful and proud in his regalia. He began wrestling at just five years old and competed in the 2017 State Tournament in Rapid City, SD. He loved football, basketball, and gaming on Xbox, especially with his little brother Nation. He attended school in McLaughlin, SD; Marty, SD; Rapid City, SD; Huron, SD; and Mandan, ND. Bright and determined, he earned his high school diploma at just 16 and began college at 17 at United Tribes Technical College, pursuing a Welding degree. He earned his OSHA and CPR/First Aid certifications and dreamed of serving his country as a Marine.
His favorite artist was Rod Wave, with “Leavin’” being the song that spoke to him most. He also had a soft spot for “What You Is” by Youngboy. He was brave, compassionate, and always smiling. The kind of young man who could light up a room just by walking into it. Quick-witted and strong-hearted, he cared deeply for the people he loved and never hesitated to stand up for them. He worked hard, treated everyone with respect, and had a gift for helping others; whether it was a neighbor, a friend, or anyone who needed a hand. His kindness and spirit left an imprint on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was the proudest father of Arianna Maria White Owl, his pride, joy, and greatest treasure. Arianna meant everything to him. Together, they shared laughter, songs, and a special saying “Hate you, love you”, a playful reminder of their unbreakable bond. She was his happiness, and in her eyes, he found peace and purpose.
Home was where he found peace, surrounded by his mom, siblings, daughter Ari, and the comforting scent of Kyann’s blanket and perfume. There, he was safe, loved, and whole.
Hoksila will forever be remembered for his laughter, his fearless soul, his deep love for family, his big smile, and his beautiful heart. Though his time on Earth was far too short, the love he gave will live forever, carried on through his daughter, his mother, and every life he touched.
He is survived by his daughter, Arianna Maria White Owl; special friend, Mercedes Jimenez; sisters Aiyanna RoughSurface, Gracie Running Bear, Leelee Running Bear, Kayleigh CrowGhost, and sister-in-law Lauren Chasing Hawk; brothers Jayce Chasing Hawk, Devontay Toledo, Kiah Chasing Hawk, Nation Running Bear, Keyen CrowGhost, and Carmine CrowGhost; and special nieces and nephews Addison Toledo, Christian RoughSurface, Kayvion Rathman, Meadow Chasing Hawk, and Willow Chasing Hawk.
He is also survived by many other loving relatives, including the Rough Surface, Twiss, Red Bear-Hale, Mable Medicine Crow, Geraldine Agard, Kathleen Antelope, Hollow, Rough, CrowGhost, Ortley, Jonathan Sam, Iron Shield, White Mountain, Black Cloud, Defender, Leah and Naomi OneFeather (Long Feather), Running Bear, Wilkinson, Shelton (Cross Bear), Daron White Eagle, Byington-Goven, Chalifoux, Faz, Brave Crow, Jerris Marin, and Jackson, Raheem Garrick families as well as numerous grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, Hun’ka family, and friends who loved him deeply.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Virgil Running Bear Sr., and his forever love, Kyann Marie White Owl, the mother of his sweet baby girl.
Special thanks to the Mandan Police Department, Mandan Fire Department, Metro Ambulance, Sanford Hospital, and all emergency personnel. The family would also like to give special thanks to; Candace (Grandma) Peterson, Al, Deb and Danny Alvarez, Shani Reisnour with Mya’s Mission Foundation, Elayna Tellup, YCC staff, Bisman community members and everyone who loved and supported Hoksila throughout his life.
Memorial services will be held at a later date. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to both Bismarck Funeral Home and Thomas Family Funeral Home for their exceptional care and collaboration in honoring his life.
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