WILLIAM BLACKHAWK COLLINS (WAKĄĴAXUNUNIK) “LITTLE THUNDER”
WILLIAM BLACKHAWK COLLINS (WAKĄĴAXUNUNIK) “LITTLE THUNDER”
William Blackhawk Collins (Wakąĵaxununik) “Little Thunder,” 42 walked on March 19, 2023, in Black River Falls, WI. He was born April 16, 1980, in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, to Donald L. Collins and Sandra S. (Winneshiek) Collins. He was a member of the Thunder Clan of the Ho-Chunk Nation. He grew up and attended school in Port Edwards, WI, and graduated in 1998 from Wisconsin Rapids Lincoln High School.
He spent all of his adult life working for the Ho-Chunk Nation. Most recently, he was the Tribal Workforce Development manager for the Ho-Chunk Nation Department of Labor. Through his work, he mentored and coached many Tribal people, helping them gain employment and further their careers. His work helped develop a connection with state and federal governments to provide better opportunities for native people.
In his personal life, he sought out the teachings of tribal elders and leaders to better his understanding of the Ho-Chunk way of life. Throughout his life, William was a traditional dancer, attending many powwows throughout the country and Canada under the guidance and teachings of his Tegas (uncles). Through his learning and strong path of the Ho-Chunk ways, he was presented a drum in which he took great care of and respected. In 2009, this led to the creation of the Little Thunder singers. Comprised of his Tegas (uncles), brothers, sons and friends.
He was a highly respected singer amongst the Ho-Chunk people and other Tribal communities because of his vast knowledge of songs, stories and translations of those songs.
Wherever he went he had a strong presence and he represented his people respectfully. He was an avid Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewer’s and Bucks fan. He enjoyed spending time with his children, as he was a very good father. Together, they sought out adventures attending comicons, games, trips to Salem, MA, for Halloween and several trips across the country to see the sights and visit family.
He is survived by his three children, Decklin Youngthunder (Daunte), Brooklyn Collins (Donavyn) and Jayden Collins; his mother, Sandra Winneshiek; his sister, Michelle Winneshiek; his brother, Fletcher Collins (Adrienne); his life-long friend and brother, Aaron “Ralph” Geister; and Tega William Winneshiek; his nieces and nephews, Merona Jefferson, Sébastien (Fats) Jefferson, Tahlin Jefferson, Gianteo (Hagee) Jefferson, Jasmyne Collins, Donovan Collins (Rita), Cameryn Collins and Gracelyn Collins; and aunts, uncles and many other relatives.
He was proceeded in death by his father, Donald L. Collins; Tega’s Chief Michael Winneshiek; and George Winneshiek, Pamela Winneshiek, Jaji James Pidgeon and Cuwi’s Lenora Collins and Wilma Jean Collins-Nelson.
He always had a warm hearty smile and glowing personality that was admired by many. William was very proud of his heritage and his family. He left an indelible mark on every one that he met. The great loss of him is felt by many throughout Indian country.