Samuel James "SJ" Netterville

Samuel James “SJ” Netterville, 75, of Fort Yates, ND, passed away on November 1, 2019. A graveside will be held at 12 pm, Thursday, November 7, 2019 at the ND Veterans Cemetery.

Sam was born in Fort Yates, ND, to Marcella Alkire Netterville and William Netterville. Sam was an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, and was raised in Fort Yates.

Sam graduated from Fort Yates High School in 1962. He then attended Bottineau Junior College graduating with a degree in Animal Husbandry. In 1966-1970, Sam served in the North Dakota National Guard. In 1970, he enlisted in the United States Army Reserve, until his honorable discharge in 1972. Next, he attended the University of North Dakota, graduating with a B.S. in Elementary Education.

On December 7, 1967, he married Joan Luger. Sam and Joan had three children- Marsha, Kurt and Samantha.

Sam always had an exceptionally strong work ethic. Evidence of his dedication and fortitude was that he worked until physically unable.

While over the years, he’s held multiple positions with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, he most recently worked as Chief Financial Officer for the Standing Rock Housing Authority, a job he truly enjoyed. For several years during the 80’s, Sam was employed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Billings and Harlem, Montana. Throughout most of his adult years, he also operated a cattle ranch.

Nature and animals were always very meaningful to him and held a special place in his heart. Articulate and well read, Sam had a passion for reading and there was always a “next read” on his list. He had an uncanny ability for remembering numbers, dates and history, which made playing poker come naturally to him. Cooking was also a specialty that he was both good at and proud of.

Friends of SJ, both living and deceased: Alkire Family, Luger Family, Knudson Family, Moore Family, Harrison Family, Gipp Family, Snider Family, Molash Family, Condon Family, TwoBears Family, Bill Reiter, Jim Shanley, Kenny McLaughlin, Mikey, Rowdy and Pat Luger, George and Marilyn KeepsEagle, Delano “Gene” Claymore, Mike Whitesell, Tim Hertel, Charlie Murphy, Bob and Clayton Hagel, Bruce Austin, Joe Dunn; Butch and Thelma Luger, Larry “Cheese” Luger, Richie Luger, Vernon Schott, Casper Kraft, Wilbur “Banny” Pleets.

Please forgive us for any family or friends we may have inadvertently missed.

Sam is preceded in death by his loving grandmother Louise Alkire; mother Marcella Alkire Netterville, brothers Gary and Duane Netterville and sister Diane Netterville. 

Sam is survived by his children Marsha Netterville, Kurt Netterville and Samantha Sauter (Chad); his ex-wife and friend Joan Netterville; twelve grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren; sister Claudia Hoyt, brothers Claude Netterville, Dwight Archambault and Matt Netterville; his caring and attentive niece LuAnn Poitra, nephews and numerous relatives. Finally, his loyal Jack Russell Terrier Miss Muffit, will miss her pal. 

The family of Sam wishes to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to the multitude of Dr’s, nurses and staff of: Sanford, UND Medical, Bismarck Cancer Center and Miller Pointe Prospera.

Also, to the Standing Rock Housing Authority co-workers who were extremely understanding and compassionate during his final months.