Born: 12 October 1919, United States
Died: 21 November 2021
Country most active: United States
Also known as: Wigmuke Waste’ Win
The following bio was written by Emma Rosen, author of On This Day She Made History: 366 Days With Women Who Shaped the World and This Day In Human Ingenuity & Discovery: 366 Days of Scientific Milestones with Women in the Spotlight, and has been republished with permission.
Wigmuke Waste’ Win (Marcella Ryan LeBeau) was a prominent Lakota figure, celebrated for her service as a nurse and military veteran. She was born in Promise, South Dakota, with a diverse heritage, part Two Kettles Lakota and part Irish-American. In 1942, she earned her nursing degree from St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre, South Dakota, embarking on a career as a registered nurse in Pontiac, Michigan. In 1943, she made a significant decision, enlisting in the United States Army Nurse Corps to serve during World War II. Her dedication led her to serve in France, England, and Belgium under the 76th General Hospital unit, including at the harrowing Battle of the Bulge. Her service in the Army culminated with the rank of First Lieutenant.
Upon completing her military service, she returned to South Dakota, settling in Rapid City, where she encountered the harsh realities of racial segregation. Her experiences included being denied the purchase of certain products, like vanilla extract, at local grocery stores.
Marcella LeBeau continued her career in healthcare by working for the Indian Health Service (IHS), eventually becoming the director of nursing at the IHS facility in Eagle Butte, South Dakota. She dedicated 31 years to her profession before retiring, earning recognition through the O. Marie Henry RNDNSC Chief Nurse and the Mable Ann Wagner Award.
Marcella LeBeau’s dedication to healthcare, her involvement in politics, and her efforts to promote a smoke-free community left a lasting legacy. She passed away in 2021 at the age of 102, leaving behind a significant impact and a loving family.