Lona Inez Pond

Lona Inez Pond passed peacefully on December 21st, 2024, surrounded by family and friends. Lona was born to Anna Jane Wilkinson and Ronald Pond on August 25th, 1963.  Lona was the last of five siblings. Her Indian name was Na-Nin-Ma, meaning one that comes from the ‘’Clearwater River’’ in Idaho. She is a direct descendant of Chief Amos Pond, Chief Willie Wocatsie, and Chief Joseph. She was an avid root digger and gatherer. She was most actively involved at the Wanapum Longhouse in Priest Rapids, Washington.

Lona was a proud Pendleton High School and Haskell Community College graduate. Lona served as a wildland firefighter from 1979 to 2001 and worked with the Baker City Hot Shots for 11 of those years. She and her father, Dr. Ron Pond continued to be actively involved with the Smoke Jumpers Association. Lona Pond was a proud advocate for Native American participation in firefighting and smoke jumping.

Lona was a Happy Canyon Princess for two consecutive years, in 1982 and 1983. Lona supported and mentored past, current, and future Happy Canyon Princesses. Lona was also an active Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame member. She enjoyed the history of the Pendleton Round-Up. Lona was an active member within her tribal community, being given the role of whip woman, succeeding her mother, Anna Jane Pond.

Ms. Pond was preceded in death by her parents: Anna Jane and Ronald Pond, her nephew Jamesteller Pond, and her siblings Clifford Pond and Mitchell Pond. Lona is survived by her brothers, Amos and Roscoe Pond, her nephews Boots and Wakody Pond, and her nieces, Crystal Pond and Monica Paradise. 

There will be a dressing on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at 1 pm, followed by a viewing at 2 pm, both at Burns Mortuary. Lona will be transported to the Longhouse following the viewing.

Friday, December 27, 2024 at 7:00 AM will be the Final Seven Songs at the Longhouse, followed by burial at Tutuilla Cemetery.