Larry Gene Fish

Larry Gene Fish, lovingly known as "Chiefy," and by his Blackfeet name, Ninaa, passed away on January 9, 2025, at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana, just days after celebrating his 64th birthday. Larry was born on December 31, 1960, at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, Montana, to Louie and Emma Fish (Grounds). He was one of 18 siblings, with 8 biological siblings: Lyena Fish, Sally Fish, Lois Fish, Louie Fish, Geraldine Fish, Wilbert Fish, Aloysius Fish, and David Fish, and 8 adopted siblings: Chris Worth, Evan Howe, Marvin Farmer, Donnie Fish, Peggy Ness, Beaver Fish, Dewey Ahenakew, Bruce Fish, Yergan (Yo), and Michael Madden. Larry was deeply connected to his Blackfeet culture and often doctored people from near and far, sharing his knowledge and traditions to help others. Larry earned an associate degree in Blackfeet Studies from Blackfeet Community College. He was also certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), reflecting his dedication to serving his community. He worked as an EMT for the Blackfeet Community Hospital, bringing comfort and care to those in need. Larry also served as a wildland firefighter, bravely working as a crew boss and later as a pumper truck driver, often taking his brother's trucks out to fight fires. For 18 years, he was a beloved teaching assistant at the alternative high school program, now called Buffalo Hide Academy, where he inspired countless students as he taught social studies and history. When not teaching or working, Larry loved fishing with his brothers and son, especially at Hidden Lake on the Blackfeet Reservation, his favorite spot. He was an avid gambler and could often be found at the Glacier Peaks Casino with his brother, enjoying slot machines and card games. He also had a deep love for scary movies, often renting from the local video store and building an impressive collection of films over the years. Larry’s greatest joy was his family. He lived with his younger brother, David Fish, and his late sister Lois Fish, both of whom he teased relentlessly. He had four children: JR (and his wife Jennifer) Olson, Jordan Fish (Olson), Michaela Whitegrass, and Naatosi Fish, as well as five Godchildren: Cheyenna, Cameron, and Brandon Vielle; Twila Young Running Crane; and Mishayo Thompson. Chiefy had 2 grandchildren, Leon and Laina Olson. He was deeply loved by his nieces Melissa and Mimi, who visited him daily, as well as their children and grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Papa Chiefy." Larry was "Papa Chiefy" to many children in the Fish family. He would take them to the state fairs in Great Falls and Kalispell, to the movies, and shopping for school clothes. Many fondly remember him as a caretaker and protector who stood up for them and provided a safe place to go. Larry’s wake will be held in Browning, Montana, at the College Homes Funeral Center starting Wednesday, January 15th. A Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17th, and his funeral service will take place at Little Flower Parish on Saturday, January 18th, at 11:00 a.m. The family invites all who knew and loved Larry to join in celebrating his life and legacy. Larry will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a loving father, brother, uncle, teacher, and friend who touched countless lives with his kindness, laughter, and unwavering love.

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