Benjamin David Bear, 65, of Tama, passed away Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. Traditional Graveside Services will be held Thursday, February 10, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the Meskwaki Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama. A Traditional Wake will be held Wednesday evening at the Bear Clan Ceremonial Building on the Meskwaki Settlement.

Benjamin was born on August 19, 1956, at home on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama, Iowa, the son of Homer and Dorothy (Waseskuk) Bear Sr.

He graduated from South Tama High School.

Benjamin worked at the Meskwaki Bingo & Casino for many years and most recently retired as the Bingo Director. He loved to MC at Powwows, joke around and visit with everyone. He enjoyed being there for people to help in any way he could, even if it was to talk.

Survivors include his brothers, Homer (Vicki) Bear Jr., and Adolph (Clydene) Bear; sisters, Karen Morris, Aldean (Sidney) Keahna, Ardelia (Harvey) Davenport, and Jeanette (Tony) Moore; special friend, Martin Hernandez; many nieces and nephews; adopted siblings, Gaylord Walker, Boye Ladd, and Frank Blackcloud; and many adopted grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers, Russell Bear, Gaylord Bear, and Alvin Bear; sister, Arlene Bear; and adopted siblings, Freddie Sanache, and Fern Seaboy.