PIERRE, SD – Stephan Anthony Scares The Hawk (“Unpan Gleska” ~ “Spotted Moose”), affectionately known as “The Hawk,” passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, in Pierre, SD, at the age of 65. A visitation will be held on Tuesday April 7th from 5-7pm at Isburg Funeral Chapel with a 7pm prayer service. A two-day wake will start on Wednesday, April 8th at the Lakota Chapel in Pierre and run through 11:00am on Friday April 10th at which time the funeral service will begin. Following the services burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Pierre. Isburg Funeral Chapel has been placed in care of the arrangements.
Stephan was born to Raymond and Flora (Village Center) Scares The Hawk in Eagle Butte, where he spent his early years. He grew up in the close-knit communities of Little Eagle and Eagle Butte, where he developed a deep appreciation for his Lakota heritage. Stephan attended school at St. Joes Indian School, Cheyenne-Eagle Butte, Chamberlain, and McLaughlin, ultimately graduating from McLaughlin High School. His pursuit of knowledge led him to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, which he used to enrich the lives of others as a K-12 Lakota Language teacher.

Stephan’s career as an educator was marked by his unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting the Lakota language and culture. He was a beloved teacher who inspired countless students with his passion and dedication. Stephan’s love for teaching was matched only by his enthusiasm for sports. A talented basketball player, he was known for his skills on the court and his sportsmanship. His nickname, “The Hawk,” was a testament to his agility and prowess in the game. Stephan also enjoyed refereeing basketball, where he was respected for his fairness and knowledge of the sport.

On December 7, 1982, Stephan married the love of his life, Candace Loudner. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising their children with love and instilling in them the values of respect, kindness, and perseverance.
Stephan is survived by his devoted wife, Candace Scares The Hawk, and their children: Michael Scares The Hawk, Samie McCauley, Jesse Scares The Hawk, Joelle Scares The Hawk, Tiffany Bull Bear, Christian (CJ) Scares The Hawk, and Cassie Scares The Hawk. He was a proud grandfather to 23 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.

Stephan cherished every moment spent with family. He is also survived by his Hunka brother, Chris, and his sisters, Iris Scares The Hawk, Debbie High Bear, and Margie Scares The Hawk. Sister (Hunka) Karah Leigh, cousins Della Scares The Hawk and Selby Noisy Hawk, just a few among many cousins and relatives. Stephan’s extended family and friends will forever remember his warmth, humor, and generosity.

Preceding Stephan in death were his parents, Raymond Scares The Hawk and Flora Village Center, as well as his sisters Patricia LaBeau, Dawn Scares The Hawk, Mary Scares The Hawk, Alice LaBeau, his brother Jimmy Scares The Hawk, and his granddaughter Maegan Callahan. Though their absence was deeply felt, Stephan carried their memories with him, honoring their lives through his actions and teachings.
Stephen always had words of encouragement to many to follow their goals and achieve something greater, he was full of life and a big supporter to many people that came across him. He will be missed by everyone he knew.

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