Local Man Honored by Community in the Brent A. Kary Memorial Men’s Softball Tournament

On Saturday, a man who known for his big heart (and even bigger mouth) was honored by family, friends, and community members who came out to play in the Brent A. Kary Memorial Men's Softball Tournament in Mandan.

Brent was an involved member in the community before passing away from colon cancer on July 17, 2010. He served as the Executive Director of the Peace Pipe Indian Center, Indian Parent Coordinator for the ND Federation of Families, and various capacities at Sitting Bull College and for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. After returning to school at the UND School of Law, he graduated in 2008 and began his legal career as the Tribal Prosecutor for the Mandan, Hidatsa & Arikara Nation and his dream job as in-house attorney for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. Shortly after beginning his law career, Brent succumbed to Stage IV colon cancer, which had spread to his liver, stomach, and lungs. He left behind many special people, including his daughter, Shalique, and son, Drayton.

Because Brent touched so many people with his infectious laughter and goofy sense of humor, and had the knack to unite people through his love of softball, his family decided to hold this tournament to honor his memory. 8 teams participated in the all-day affair, which included bracket-style tournament games, a base-running contest, place-hitting contest, home-run hitting contest, blanket-hitting contest, and Best Team Harlem Shake.

The food was perhaps more of a draw than the tournament itself. Participants and spectators were treated to his mom's famous Indian tacos, all handmade by Marilyn (Sharon) Kary herself. The family also provided refreshments, prizes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.

For those of you that knew Brent, this was the type of event he lived for - loud music, good food, and even better company. Three years later, Brent may be gone, but it is obvious that he is not forgotten.