Theophile Donald Soft III

Theophile “Theo” Donald Soft III, age 43, of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, passed away on Tuesday, May 12. He was born on December 29, 1982, in Fort Yates, North Dakota, to Theophile Donald Soft Jr. and Elizabeth Celeste Long Elk. Theo was a gentle, kind-hearted man whose smile and laughter could brighten any room. He worked as a construction laborer across the United States and took great pride in his work. Above all, he cherished his role as a brother, son, uncle, cousin, and friend. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his nieces and nephews. Theo loved being outdoors, fishing, and playing frisbee golf (“frolfing”). He treasured time with family and friends and carried a deep love for his community.

Theo is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Celeste Long Elk (ND); siblings, Angel Young & husband Mike Young (ND), Dwan Thompson (MN), Danya Cadreau & husband Vance Cadreau (AZ); one daughter: Keona Soft (ND); many half-brothers and half-sisters across Minnesota and South Dakota; best friends who became brothers, Darrel Bruce (ND) and Tyler Doctor (ND); close friend: Jacqueline Wilkie (ND); aunt, Marsha Long Elk & family from Minnesota.

Theo is also survived by five nieces, Windyna Soft (Devin Mclean), Maliya Alfaro, Mariah Cadreau, Adonica Alfaro, Brooklynn Young; six nephews, Emilio Alfaro, Evaristo Alfaro, Kody Young, Sean Cadreau, Brayden Young, Jordan Young; one great-niece, Daleah Mclean, and one great-nephew, Daniel Mclean; a niece from Standing Rock, Dance White Bull who joined the family and was welcomed into his protected circle, along with numerous cousins throughout North Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota.

Theo was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Theophile Donald Soft Sr.; maternal grandparents, Chauncey Long Elk and Ethel Long Elk; and many beloved aunties, uncles, and cousins from both sides of the family.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the City of Grand Forks, Altru Hospital, and the Grand Forks Police Department for their care, compassion, and support during this difficult time.

Please check back soon for updated service information, once made available.