Dion Francis Red Gun

Red Gun, Dion Francis - Napikowan (White man)

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandpa, great-grandpa, son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend. Sunrise, March 19, 1961, Sunset, May 17, 2026, surrounded by his family. Dion is survived by his loving wife, Cherylene, of 48 years, his children: Trina, Roland, Kyle, Lennon, Caelan and Noah, cherished grandchildren: Dion Layton Grey, Darian, Angeli, Lorenzo, Rico, Lazreth, Tienna, and 2 great grandchildren: Gabriel and Zariah, his mother, Rose Red Gun, his siblings: Rufus (Carmen), Horton (Ervina), Anthony, Juliet, Nena, Harriet (Quinton), Sister in laws: Sherry, Wanda, Stacey (Merlon), Brother inlaw, Quinton Bull Bear, his aunties: Patricia (Reggie) One Spot, Bernadette Crow Child, and Lillian Fairbrother, numerous nieces and nephews, and relatives of the Red Gun, Many Guns, Cutter, Tail Feathers, Scalplock, Fox, Two Horns. Dion was predeceased by his parents, Harry Red Gun and Margaret Cutter, his precious son, Dion Jr (DJ), grandchildren: Traydee and Husky, his brothers: Jordan, Clayton, and Romeo, his sisters: Twila and Tama, Mother in law, Lorraine Stevens, nieces and nephews: Christina Red Gun, Harry Red Gun III, Ritchie Red Gun, Benjamin Bull Bear, Christopher Bull Bear, and Shawna Bull Bear.

Dion was a proud Humble Siksikakowan with strong rich values and morals that were instilled in his children and grandchildren. Dion spent many years doing contracts with housing and completed his degree in Business Management with Mount Royal University and CDI College where he focused on Entrepreneurship, and building the Siksika Outdoor Arbor alongside his dad Harry and brother Jordan. He took pride in all and everything he did. He later held a successful business retiring as the owner and founder of “River Ranche”. Dion built his home and business alongside his sons where he hosted many tourists and visitors from other countries and parts of the world such as Germany, Poland, Mexican, Europe, and so forth. He also sat on the Board of Directors with Indigenous Tourism Alberta. Along with his family, he would host events to entertain his guests and tourists so that they could experience all the great things Dion had to offer right in his own backyard. He used Siksika Knowledge and his education to remain successful. It wasn't until June 2013 when the flood hit causing devastating destruction over his former location that brought him to be determined to bring his business to higher ground with the grand opening of “River Ranche”, a lodge where he built his homestead alongside his sons and grandsons. Dion opened up and hosted many healing events for the community including the matrix program. River Ranche was always open. He loved teaching and spending time with his grandchildren teaching them and guiding them along the way to prepare for them to take over the Ranche. He would go above and beyond to be there for his family, he had a big heart and is already so missed and so loved by his wife, children and grandchildren in which his legacy will continue. The family would like to thank everyone for their kind tributes, stories and just being there for the family during this difficult time. Dion left an exemplary impression that will be forever remembered through all those who encountered his presence. Wake services will be held Friday May 22, 2026 at the residence of Cherylene and Dion Red Gun (River Ranche), starting at 6:00 pm. Funeral will begin Saturday May 23, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the residence of Cherylene and Dion Red Gun (River Ranche) with Pastor Vincent Yellow Old Woman. Gravesite services to follow at Little Chicago Cemetery. A feast will be served at Cherylene and the Late Dion’s residence all family and friends are invited to attend and eat with the family. The family would like to thank everyone who came to support the family with food and contributions, along with the RCMP and Siksika EMS for taking care of Dad. Hand to Heart…

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