Valerie Bear

Valerie Bear, age 78, began her Journey on March 4, 2025. She was the beloved wife of nearly 50 years to Martin Johnson, Jr., and a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.

She is survived by her children: Martin Johnson III, Dawn Johnson, Rick Bear, Robin Johnson, and Robert Bear. She was a cherished grandmother to Adam, Ambria, Jolita, Meelo, Leila, Pete, Brittney, Robert, Dayzhan, Shannel, Isaiah, Naomi, Constance, Martina, Leanda, Ryan, and Fawn. She was preceded in death by her daughter, (the late) Melinda Bear.

Valerie was also preceded in death by her sisters Brenda, Marcia, and Clairene, and her brothers Elwayne, Erwin, and Reyndal. She is further survived by her sisters Carlita and Murial and her brother Nelson.

She found joy in working on puzzles, watching her favorite TV shows, attending traditional ceremonies and pow wows, and playing horseshoes. She also loved attending sports activities, whether cheering on her grandchildren or supporting the local high school teams.

A wake will be held on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Hertel Tribal Ceremonial Hall, 24684 Angeline Ave, Hertel, WI. Funeral services will follow on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, with interment at Sand Lake Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Rob Phernetton, Jim Barber, Dayzhan Churchill, Riley Churchill, Isaiah Johnson, Mike Belisle, Dustin Reynolds, and Joseph Merrill.

Valerie will be remembered for her unwavering love for family, her deep ties to tradition, and the kindness she shared with everyone she met.