Octa Keen Obituary, Death Omaha, Nebraska – The Omaha Tribe is grieving the loss of one of its most respected elders, Octa Keen, who passed away on the morning of April 9, 2025. Known for her dedication to preserving the UmoNhoN language and culture, Octa was a fluent speaker and a cherished member of her community. Her passing marks a significant loss for both her family and the Omaha Tribe, where she was admired for her wisdom, kindness, and commitment to keeping her heritage alive.
Octa Keen was deeply involved in the efforts to maintain and teach the UmoNhoN language, a vital part of the tribe’s cultural identity. As a fluent speaker, she worked tirelessly to ensure the language was passed down to future generations, helping to preserve an important part of Omaha heritage. Her contributions to the community extended beyond language, as she was also known for her warm spirit and involvement in various tribal activities.
In a statement shared by The Omaha Speaking, the tribe expressed its sorrow, saying, “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.” A wake for Octa Keen is being held at All Nations Church in Macy, Nebraska, and will continue until Saturday night, April 12th. Her funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 13th, at the Omaha Nation Public School in Macy. Community members are invited to attend the services to honor her life and legacy.
Stu Sleeper, a member of the community, shared 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.” Octa’s passing has left a profound void, but her contributions to preserving the Omaha language and her unwavering dedication to her people will continue to inspire those who knew her. As the community comes together to celebrate her life, her memory will live on through the language she worked so hard to protect and the people she touched along the way.
