William Buckskin Michel

The family shares with deep sorrow the passing of William Buckskin Michel on May 4, 2025. William was born on June 1, 1995, to Wilbert Buckskin Michel Sr. and Beverly Michel. He grew up on the Westside surrounded by family and close friends with whom he shared many childhood memories and school days. William attended Polson schools and graduated from Two Eagle River School.

He held various jobs over the years, including working for CSKT Law and Order as a jailer, M&S Meats in packaging, as a ski lift operator at Blacktail Mountain, and most recently as a supervisor at Simply 406.

William enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing, hiking, riding dirt bikes, playing video games, BBQs, shooting guns, and spending time with his family and friends. He especially loved taking trips with his brothers to Denver and Seattle to watch NBA and MLB games and attending Griz football games.

William is preceded in death by his wife, Christine Big Crane; his father, Wilbert Michel Sr.; grandparents, Pete and Regina Matt, Matt Buckskin and Lucy Moody; aunts, Linda Michel, Jody Irvine, and Arlene Powell; uncles, Kevin Matt, Lee Michel, Gilbert Michel, Junior Michel, and Keith Michel Sr.; his brother, Ryan Lefthand; and his sister, Rene Strahan.

He is survived by his mother, Beverly Michel; his daughter, Rue Michel; sisters, Janelle (Kevin) and Leigh Ann; brothers, Wilbert Jr. and Waylon; aunts, Diane, Geneva, and Donata; uncles, Victor (Linnea), Leonard (Melissa), and Jerry (Selena); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The wake will begin on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 2:00 pm, Rosary at 8:00 pm, and service on Monday, May 12th at 10:00 am, all at Elmo Hall. Burial at Dayton Cemetery.

Arrangements are pending and will be announced by The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.