Philander Loren Ross 

"lktomi Kichi Omani" (Walks With Spider) 

Sunrise: January 23, 1967 ~ Sunset: August 12, 2026

Memorial/Funeral Service will be held at Diamond Willow Ministries Church beginning @1:00 pm through 3:00 pm. A feed in his honor and memory will be provided after services. Burial of ashes to be held at Stephan Immaculate Catholic Cemetery after services. Per his wishes he will be laid to rest with his great grandmother Susan (Half Day) Wind.

Philander Loren Ross was born to Velda Barbara Ross and Silas Johnson, Jr on January 23, 1967 in Chamberlain, SD. He was raised by his maternal Great Grandmother Susie Wind's home until she passed away. Once she passed away, he was taken in by his Auntie on his dad's side, Anette Johnson White Mouse aka "Auntie Mouse." Phil attended and graduated from the 8th grade from St. Joseph's Indian School and later received his GED.

Philander cherished and loved his only child, his beautiful daughter Phyllyssia Rae Ross, who was born at 1:45 PM on July 13, 2004 at St. Mary's Hospital in Pierre, SD to him and Lisa Merrit Johnson. She was his pride and joy throughout his life. He was a very proud Dad to his daughter and made sure she never had to want for anything in her life. He would always travel to see her especially on her birthday's and other special occasions.

Phil also was a life long resident of Fort Thompson, SD and the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. He was a proud member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe and loved working for his tribe in various capacities and jobs. Always present to lend a helping hand when needed. He was one of the original DAKOTA 38 Memorial Horseback Riders when the ride first started. He continued to ride and help with this annual tradition for many years. He also assisted with and helped with the other horse back memorials rides; Santee Ride & White Stone Hill. Although Cousin Phil was a very private man, he was an avid supporter of our traditional Dakota ways of life. He also enjoyed gambling and winning jackpots from time to time. He opened up his home to many family and friends over the years, because that's the type of man he was, generous and caring. He had a wicked sense of humor, loved any and all spicy foods and peppers and was blessed with a lead foot that drove him anywhere.

Cousin Phil was diagnosed with cancer last fall. We almost lost him then but with prayers and his strong will to live he returned home to us after the holidays. He vowed to all of us who loved him that he would "ring that bell." He began his fight against cancer with chemotherapy along with his traditional ways of life. He attended one last ceremony in July at which time I felt in my heart he made his peace with Creator because not even a month later, God called him home. Cousin Phil began his journey home to "Star Camp" on the morning of August 12, 2026.

Philander is survived by his beautiful precious daughter Phyllysia Rae Ross and Kelcie Obago. He is also survived by many friends, relatives, family and Hun'ka family as well.

Philander is preceded in death by his parents, Velda Ross and Silas Johnson Jr. along with many other relatives and friends to numerous to mention. 

Fly High Cousin Phil and journey well.  Watch over us all until our time on Earth Side comes to its end.  We will forever love and miss you.