Elizabeth Marleen Bumgarner ("Marly"),
Terminated Mixed-Blood Uinta, Roll #34
Elizabeth Marleen Bumgarner was born on August 14, 1952, during the annual Sundance near Whiterocks, Utah. Her parents ran the concession stand at the Sundance grounds, serving hamburgers, hot dogs, candy, fry bread, and fresh coffee.
Her birth remains a vivid memory for her family. It was raining that night, and her father woke the children to prepare for her arrival. Grandparents Curry were present, and when her father returned from taking her mother to the hospital, the family welcomed a new baby girl with a round face, wavy black hair, and dark brown eyes. Her mother also gave her the name Elizabeth.
With her mother busy running the store and serving on the Affiliated Ute Board, Marleen was cared for primarily by her father, siblings, and occasionally her aunt Oranna (Curry) Garcia, whom Marleen adored. Her uncle Dick Curry often visited to play with her.
Marleen quickly became the “baby boss” of the family, endearing herself to her older brother Reggie, who lovingly nicknamed her “Marly.” Her favorite playmate was Sue Denver, who lived next door, and the two were almost inseparable, spending their days making mud pies and playing with dolls.
Although Marleen was intelligent and quick to learn, her childhood was marked by frequent illness. She suffered from recurring colds, sore throats, and eventually a kidney infection. Doctors diagnosed her with nephritis, a kidney disease that ultimately led to her kidney failure.
Her illness confined her to hospitals and doctor’s offices for much of her time. She experienced painful swelling, often becoming the target of teasing from other children. Her parents gave her a spotted black-and-white dog named Trixie (or “Trixann”), who became her constant companion, even when Marleen was confined to a wheelchair.
During this time, the termination of the mixed-blood Uinta people exacerbated her family’s struggles. Marleen’s mother continued to work at the store and serve on the board, while her family moved to Roosevelt after her father left for Oklahoma. Access to Indian Health Services was limited, and many families faced financial hardship just to survive.
On the afternoon of May 19, 1962, Marleen’s condition worsened. Her family rushed to the hospital in Vernal, Utah, where they witnessed her suffering. Her kidneys had failed, and she experienced severe pain. Her sister recalled seeing her brother Reggie, grandparents, and younger brother Craig overcome with grief. Despite her own pregnancy and illness, her sister comforted Marleen and told her how much she was loved.
Marleen passed away in the early morning hours of May 20, 1962, from acute kidney failure. Her family held a traditional Indian wake at their home in Roosevelt, with her loyal dog Trixie by her side. Trixie later passed away of old age at the home of their uncle, Dick Curry.
Marleen’s life was deeply affected by illness and the systemic injustices of termination. Her family reflects on the possibility that, with proper medical care and support, her life might have followed a different path. She is remembered for her spirit, her resilience, and the love she inspired in her family.