Christopher James Running Bear Sr., 54, from Embarrass, MN, passed away peacefully on November 4th, 2025, surrounded by his family. Christopher was born in Denver, Colorado, on August 15th, 1971, to Robert Running Bear Sr. and Patricia Running Bear. Christopher was an enrolled member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate tribe located on the Lake Traverse Reservation in South Dakota.

During Christopher's life, he had experience being a wild land firefighter, often traveling across the country to perform his job. He also worked locally for the Minnesota DNR doing the same career, wild land firefighting. Christopher also improved the health of his community on the Bois Forte reservation as a certified fitness instructor. For a few short years, Christopher was also a dock hand on Lake Vermillion, installing and removing docks. Later in his life, Christopher enjoyed being a jack of all trades, adding more experience to his resume. There’s nothing he loved more than finding different, unique ways to support his family. Christopher was an involved father and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved to attend his children’s sports events and extracurricular activities. He was passionate about helping his children train for sports such as hockey, football, swimming, and softball.

Christopher loved to fish, especially with his family and friends. He was also very passionate about his culture and was often seen dancing and making regalia for him and his family. Christopher's other hobbies included going for walks, playing Fortnite and Pokémon Go, eating oranges, and drinking water. He would also sit for hours listening to music and watching videos about pow wows and history. He especially loved watching the TV show, “Ancient Aliens.” Before he fell ill, he was seen doing what he loved most- being an active grandfather.

Christopher is preceded in death by Patricia Running Bear nd Robert Running Bear Jr.

Christopher is survived by Leslie Pflueger, Michael Running Bear, Francis Running Bear, Thomas Running Bear, Travis Running Bear, Christopher Running Bear Jr., Carol “Cleo” Running Bear & Zacariah Warlof, Kendrick Running Bear, Onyx Running Bear, and Idris Running Bear.

A celebration of life for Christopher will be determined at a later date.