Benjamin Leclair

Benjamin Michael LeClair, resident of Marland, passed Friday morning, October 9, 2009 at his home. He was 60 years of age. Michael was born October 16, 1948 in Pawnee, Oklahoma, the son of Leo LeClair and Elsie Green LeClair. He was a 1967 graduate of Chilocco Indian School and then attended Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kansas. At the age of 18 Michael joined the United States Army and served his country in Vietnam with the 9th Infantry. Michael received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge.. He was a member of the American Legion Buffalo Post 38. His enjoyments included going to the casinos, watching football, listening to music and spending time with his grandkids. He is survived by three sisters, Lois Warrior and husband, Gordon, of Tonkawa, Susan Primeaux of Oklahoma City, and Debra Kovanda and husband, Reese, of Missouri; one brother, George Primeaux and wife, Betty, of Ponca City; several nieces and nephews, other extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother and one sister; and two Vietnam War buddies, Eric Howe and Maxie Biggoose. Prayer services will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, October 11, 2009 at the Ponca Indian Methodist Church. A noon meal will be served Monday, October 12, 2009 at the Church with the funeral service to follow at 2 p.m. Brother James White will officiated the service. Burial will follow in the Ponca Tribal Cemetery under the direction of Grace Memorial Chapel. Casket bearers will be Dwayne Warrior, Brandon Warrior, Michael Williams, Robert Williams, Wesley Gaines, David Primeaux and John Primeaux. Honorary casket bearers will be Benjamin Waters Jr., Ponca Warrior, Thomas Roy, Spencer Warrior, Cecil Brown Jr., Earl Brown and Hugh Brown.