Lawrence Neil Obie, age 54, passed away in Orland, Calif. on July 18, 2020.

He was born in Arcata on August, 7 1965 to Leslie and Dorothy Obie as the youngest of his five siblings. He was raised in McKinleyville but spent most of his life around the Hoopa area. Most people knew him as “Bluey,” or “Blue boy,” a name given to him as a child by his mother after the symbolic blue bird of happiness. In his youth he enjoyed playing sports and riding motorcycles. In school he was an exceptional track runner and at one point excelled at the Junior Olympics, winning many metals. One of his fondest childhood memories was running along the ocean shore with his father and brother, something they did regularly.

Later he enjoyed creative ventures like carpentry, carving, gardening and spending time outdoors along the river and creek bed. He loved sleeping outside under the stars. He loved to sing and dance and often embraced any cause for celebration. Above all, Bluey loved spending time with people. He loved his family and friends and always made sure it was known. He was never one to walk away without a hug and an “I love you so much.” He spent most of his life traveling the river visiting friends and family, and making new memories along the way. He maintained a strong connection to those he loved and who loved him. He was loyal, thoughtful and always a fun person to be around. He was a free spirit, who was content to roam and at times despised convention and institution.

Bluey had courage. He was a proud and strong Yurok man. Toward the end of his time he endured a life most could not. He will be remembered by those who loved him most for his fearlessness, quick wit, infectious smile, humor, healthy appetite and rambunctious spirit. He was a loving father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend. He was one of kind and his memory will go on in the hearts of those who loved him most. He was loved and will be missed dearly.

Bluey is survived by his daughter Angelica Obie and spouse Vincent McCovey; grandchildren Greyson Red Hawk McCovey, Josie Delores McCovey Vincent McCovey Jr; brothers Darrel Obie, Harold Tripp and family; sisters Karen Sue Tripp and family, and Charlene Super; nieces; Dorothy and Cawtep Sylvia, Christina and Andrew Lamebear, Michelle Gaylean and Issac Mccovey, Nelisa Obie; nephews Mikel and Chenone Obie, Miles Obie and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Bluey is preceded in death by his parents Leslie and Dorothy, sister Lisa Obie, nieces Frankki Marshall and Miranda Obie and many other friends and family members.

Special mention: Dominic Obie, David Oneil, Micahael Gabriel, Keg Super, Caw-Tep Sylvia, Frankie Hostler, Toni Obie, Leslie Strong, Vic Starritt, Terry Mccovey, Ronny Sanderson, Kim Obie, Gwen Obie-Rousseau, Cindy Sylvia, Gilberta Torres, Merri and Sherri Marshall

Due to the COVID -19 pandemic no public services will be held.