Teron William Sazue, 23, of Fort Thompson, South Dakota, was born on October 28, 2001, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Maria T. Provost (Kirkie) and Elijah W. Sazue.

Teron embraced both competition and camaraderie, finding joy in the game and strength in his teammates. On the basketball court, he played with relentless heart and determination, representing White River High School (2016–2019) and Crow Creek High School (2019–2020) with pride. His talent and work ethic set him apart, earning him numerous honors and the respect of all who played beside him.

As a sophomore at White River, Teron earned "All-Tournament" recognition at the State B Tournament — a remarkable accomplishment made even more meaningful because he came off the bench to do it. He also etched his name in the record books, holding White River's records for most charges taken in a single game (4) and in a single season (17). These records reflect not only his toughness, but his selfless willingness to sacrifice for his team.

In his senior year at Crow Creek, Teron's leadership and skill earned him Third Team All-State honors, and he helped guide the Chieftains to qualify for the State A Tournament. Though the tournament was canceled due to COVID-19, the achievement remained a source of pride for him, his teammates, and his community.

Graduating from Crow Creek High School — the same school his parents and grandparents had attended — was one of Teron's proudest accomplishments. He carried the legacy of his family with honor and cherished being part of the Chieftain family and his Hunkpati community. For Teron, basketball was never just a game — it was a way to honor those who came before him, to bring people together, and to give his whole heart to something greater than himself.

Teron also excelled in football, serving as a captain for Crow Creek's team. He was part of the inaugural All-Nations Football Championship and was named "Defensive MVP." Though he considered pursuing college football, he ultimately chose to play college basketball at United Tribes Technical College. This fall, he had been preparing to try out for Haskell Indian Nations University's basketball team while completing his degree, with the goal of becoming an Athletic Trainer.

He also enjoyed golfing, swimming, and fishing with his family and friends, in the summer months. He loved going to cookouts and bringing back "watetch" for later. Teron loved fried potatoes with Hidden Valley Ranch, spaghetti with Hidden Valley Ranch, and goulash with Hidden Valley Ranch. He also loved wings, birria tacos, popovers, and NDN tacos with extra Hidden Valley Ranch. Teron had a Hidden Valley Ranch addiction like no other. And if you know, you know. Teron cherished playing softball with his Kirkie uncles and close friends. League nights in Pierre, South Dakota, were more than just games to him — they were moments of joy, togetherness, and lasting memories he held close to his heart.

Outside of sports, Teron was known for his kindness and willingness to help anyone, with anything, at any time. Helping others was not just something he did — it was part of who he was. He loved gaming online with his brothers and friends, laughing, talking smack, and staying connected. Teron's life, though far too short, was rich with love, friendship, achievement, and generosity. He will be remembered for his big heart, his dedication to his teams, his pride in his heritage, and the joy he brought to everyone he met.

Teron passed away in Lower Brule, South Dakota, on August 11, 2025. He is survived by his parents, Maria & Kory Provost and Chelsea "Mama Chels" Sazue; Hunka parents, Steph Pourier and Billy Joe Sazue; brothers, Kyrie Wayne Provost, Jade Sazue, Nunpa Kirkie, and Riyen Carlow; sisters, Lana Jean Flute and Riley Lunderman; paternal grandmothers, Myra Isburg and Karla Cuny; paternal grandfathers, Brent Sazue, Arlo Provost, and Ken "Papa Kenny" Many Wounds. He is also remembered and cherished by a very large extended family, who will forever carry his spirit with them. To his countless relatives and loved ones, Teron was more than family — he was a source of strength, comfort, and love that will never fade.

He is preceded in death by his father, Elijah W. Sazue; paternal grandfather, Steve Gourneau; maternal grandparents, Butch Kirkie and Janice Fallis; paternal great-grandparents, William & Betty Isburg and "Tall Bill" & June Sazue; maternal great-grandparents, Marie Bird & Ron Kirkie Sr., Rita & Stanley Fallis, and Irma Quilt & Jerald Marks; sister, Kimber Chevelle Provost; cousins, Taelonna Seeking Land and Araya Fallis; and uncle, Harley Sazue.

Teron carried a genuine gift for peace. More than anything, he wanted those around him to live with love in their hearts. He had a rare ability to bring people together, to calm storms, and to remind everyone of what truly mattered. His presence was steady and unshakable — the one others could rely on to restore calm, offer kindness, and lead with understanding. To know Teron was to be touched by his love, his strength, and his unwavering spirit of peace.

Funeral services for Teron W. Sazue, 23, of Fort Thompson, SD will be 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at the Akicita Mato (Bear Soldier) Gymnasium in Fort Thompson, SD with burial in the Conkicaska Presbyterian Cemetery at Fort Thompson, SD.  Wake services will be 7:00 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at the Akicita Mato (Bear Soldier) Gymnasium in Fort Thompson, SD.

Anyone wishing to follow, the procession will leave from funeral home on Monday at 3:00 p.m.

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