Monte Elias Gakin, 29, of Rapid City, SD, passed away on August 27th, 2025, where he was tragically taken from us.

Monte was born on June 22nd, 1996, to mother Maria Gakin and late father Ralph Jackson. Later to be raised with his dad, Frederick Eagle Tail, at the age of two years old until his passing.

Monte attended Horace Mann elementary school as a young boy who loved to have fun and venture off to boy’s club.

He attended North Middle School, where he created many friendships and memories. Later to attend Central High School to play a bit of football and enjoy his teenage years.

Monte was somebody who loved adventures and challenges. For example, he loved to swim with the sharks in Monterey Bay, California and explore the mossy forests in Oregon. Monte was a survivor, a lone warrior, and a man who handled his own problems. Monte had many misfortunes in life, but he didn’t let them phase him. Monte showed what strength and integrity was, he carried himself well and he will always be known as somebody who feared nothing and nobody.

Monte was selfless with a heart of gold; he would help anyone and anybody. He was the type of person to give you the shirt off his back, even if it was all he had. Monte was a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on and a true protector.

Monte could light up any room with his presence, he had his charming personality and witty jokes that could make you laugh for days. He will always be remembered for how funny and humorous he was. Nobody can embody his joke delivery, or storytelling in the way that he could. Monte could make you smile on a rainy day.

Monte was truly one of a kind, somebody you meet only once in a lifetime and someone you will remember forever. He left a strong impact wherever he went and created a special place in everyone’s hearts. May we always remember his beautiful honey-golden eyes and long, black curly locks.

Remember the warmth of his hugs, the sound of his voice and never forget that he should still be here.

Monte will be forever loved and missed by his family, relatives, friends, and his dog named, “Beauty”.

Forever and always, we love you Monte.

Survived by his children: Kylauna Soulek and Nova Gakin.

He has five siblings on his mother's (Maria Gakin) side: Dallas Quick Bear, Shelia Quick Bear, Ty Eagle Tail, Rico Eagle Tail and Monressa Eagle Tail.

He has five siblings on his father’s (Ralph Jackson) side: Katana Fisher, Cody Hopkins, Kiana White Butterfly, Adrianna King, and Abigail Smith.

Grandparents: Mary Red Leaf, Ron Cartier, Marie Jackson, Hezkiah Jackson.

Monte is preceded in death by his older brother, Dallas Quick Bear, little brother Ty Ari Eagle Tail, and his father, Ralph Jackson.