Charles Michael Richards II was born on a winter day, December 15, 1987 at Rapid City Regional Hospital to Renay (Silva) Youpee and Charles “Chuck” Richards, who deeply loved him. He was given his Lakota name, Wankale Icage (Grows Above), by his paternal grandfather Clement “Sonny” Richards. Charles died surrounded by people who loved him on Monday, August 27, 2018 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

Charles was a very active baby and child who enjoyed playing with his cousins, visiting his grandpa Sonny and grandma Elaine, playing “teno” (Nintendo), ninja “Indian” turtles, and dancing like Michael Jackson. He attended Knollwood Elementary for one year and the remaining at Horace Mann Elementary and North Middle School. During this time he had fun with his friends and relatives and playing with his little brother, Manning. Charles participated in baseball, midget football and played the violin. While attending Rapid City Central High School, his passion for skateboarding exceeded all other activities. He would wake up early in the mornings and stay late at night skating at the skate park and around town. Charles graduated from Central High School in May 2007. His new joy changed when his son, Nyjah Jaedyn Richards was born in 2008.

Charles worked in various jobs, but he seemed to shine as a CNA where he worked at Golden Living Center – Black Hills and Golden Living Prairie Hills. He made great relationships with his co workers and patients and was happy. Charles was able to spend his last years caring, living and spending time with his son.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Clement “Sonny” and Mary Richards; Paternal great grandmother, Gertrude Larvie; and Maternal great grandparents, James and Catherine Silva.

Charles is survived by his grandmother Elaine Delores; His mother Renay (Marvin) Youpee, Charles “Chuck” Richards; His bothers, Manning Richards, Noah Richards and Elisha Youpee; His son, Nyjah Richards and numerous aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Charles will be greatly missed and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Black Hills Federal Credit Union to benefit Charles\'s son, Nyjah.