Octa Keen Omaha, Nebraska Death and Obituary – The Omaha Tribe is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and cherished elders, Octa Keen, who passed away on the morning of April 9, 2025. Known for her deep commitment to preserving the UmoNhoN language and her unwavering dedication to the cultural heritage of the Omaha people, Octa was a beloved figure within her community. Her death represents a profound loss not only for her family but also for the entire Omaha Tribe, which has been significantly impacted by her life’s work and contributions.
Octa Keen’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the survival of the UmoNhoN language, a vital part of the tribe’s identity. As a fluent speaker, she was one of the few remaining elders who could speak the language in its purest form. She dedicated much of her life to teaching and sharing the language with younger generations, striving to ensure that it was not forgotten and that the cultural richness of the Omaha people could continue to thrive. Her work as a language advocate has left an indelible mark on the community, and she will be remembered as a pivotal figure in the effort to preserve UmoNhoN for future generations.
Beyond her linguistic contributions, Octa was known for her deep sense of kindness, humility, and wisdom. She was a familiar presence at community gatherings and was involved in various tribal activities. Whether she was offering advice, sharing stories, or simply spending time with family and friends, Octa’s warm spirit and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her. Her gentle yet powerful influence extended far beyond language preservation, as she embodied the values and traditions that the Omaha Tribe holds dear.
In a statement released by The Omaha Speaking, the tribe expressed its deep sorrow, acknowledging Octa’s invaluable role in keeping the language and culture alive. “With great sadness, the Omaha Tribe lost UmoNhoN fluent speaking elder Octa Keen, who passed yesterday morning. She was much loved by her family, friends, and community. Octa was dedicated to keeping her language and culture alive,” the statement read. The tribe’s grief is shared by many, as Octa was a central figure in a tight-knit community that continues to feel the loss of such a respected elder.
A wake for Octa Keen is being held at All Nations Church in Macy, Nebraska, and will continue until the evening of April 12th. Her funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 13th, at the Omaha Nation Public School in Macy. The community has been invited to attend both the wake and the funeral service to honor Octa’s life and legacy. These gatherings serve as a testament to her lasting impact on the Omaha Tribe, bringing together those who were touched by her kindness and devotion.
Stu Sleeper, a member of the community, shared a heartfelt message expressing his sorrow, saying, “Life can be full of trials and heartbreak at times. With that being said, I just heard word that our Grandma Octa Keen was called home. Another sad day. I don’t have any other words for now. Take care of each other and be good to one another.” His words reflect the emotional weight of Octa’s passing and the sense of unity and support that the community is leaning on during this difficult time.
As the community comes together to mourn and celebrate her life, Octa Keen’s legacy will endure. Her tireless efforts to preserve the Omaha language and her unwavering devotion to the people she loved will continue to inspire future generations. In the hearts of all those who knew her, her memory will live on, embodied in the words she worked so hard to protect and the lives she touched along the way.