Ernest Pourier

Ernest Francis Pourier, 76, of Vermillion, SD passed away Wednesday, August 13 at the Sanford Vermillion Hospital.

Ernest Francis Pourier, Spirit Name Wild Horses (Shunka Wakan Wathogla) was born at Pine Ridge, South Dakota to Baptiste (Bud) and Katherine (Brewer) Pourier.

As a child Ernie grew up on his parent’s ranch located at Porcupine, South Dakota. He had many good memories of those days, having to feed and water cows, fixing fences and branding. He mentioned he loved branding as all his cousins would come and his mother would prepare a wonderful meal. He had many happy memories of his Brewer cousins. Attending many rodeos with his parents, near and far. He attended the Boarding School, located at Pine Ridge, SD and graduated in May 1967. After graduation he enlisted in the US Army during the Vietnam Era. After returning from the military, he pursed his college education. He received his Bachelor of Science in Political Science and his Master’s in public administration. His career started with employment with the Oglala Sioux Tribe, then the Bureau of Indian Affairs. He started working in the Leasing Department, Realty Office and Acting Superintendent many times, and retired as a Deputy Superintendent. His position took him many places in United States. He worked in South Dakota, North Dakota, Arizona, and Nebraska. He received and earned many awards for his outstanding performance with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. In December of 2016 Ernie retired from the government services with 30 years.

In May of 2023 Ernie had the opportunity of traveling with many other veterans to Washington, D.C., on the’ Honor Flight’ for Vietnam Veterans. That was a memorable experience.

His warm smile, infectious laughter, and fun sense of humor will be missed by all. Ernie loved watching his favorite team “Green Bay Packers” along with his Pine Ridge Thorpe’s. He loved watching the Kentucky Derby, Rodeo’s, golf, powwows, sun dances, sacred ceremonies, reading, cross word puzzles and sudoku...Walking and exercising when possible.

Ernie was a devoted husband, and a loving stepdad and grandfather. Ernie was the Best Papa, his six grandchildren, could ever have. Ernie loved following and watching his grandchildren participate in all sport activities and graduations. He will be remembered for his strength, pride, intelligence and his unconditional love that he gave so many. Ernie is survived by his wife Pauline, one stepson, Dale (Teresa), one stepdaughter, Gayle, six grandchildren, Tyler, Cora, Taylor, Jacob, Caleb and Grace. Two Sisters, Irene Blue Horse, Pine Ridge, SD and Lois Fraser, Porcupine, SD. Many nieces and nephews, cousins and countless friends.

Ernie is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, uncles and aunts.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 AM Tuesday, August 19 at the St. Agnes Catholic Church in Vermillion. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM at the church.