A distinguished Yup'ik elder from Mtn. Village died recently and his funeral was held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 18.  Over 250 people participated in the celebration of life for Robert Beans, Sr, "Doungie". 

Students from OLV were the altar servers, and 3 third graders:  Lucy Kays, Luella Spies and Berti Maixner accompanied by Joyce Lund provided the music.

In addition to traditional funeral hymns, at the end of the service, the girls

led the congregation in one of the family's favorite songs: "I'll Fly Away."  

During thereception, three women from the Bean's family performed a traditional dance and song.