Maynard Jess Traversie, known as "Babe" was born on December 10, 1942 to Maynard and Lucille Traversie at Old Agency.  In 1959 the family moved to Eagle Butte.

He joined the US Army in 1960 and proudly served for over 16 years before receiving an honorable discharge.  Well in the Army, Maynard served as a tank commander and did five tours in Vietnam.  He was awarded four purple hearts among many other awards and commendations.

Maynard married Wilma Garter in 1983 in Eagle Butte.  During their time together they lived in Eagle Butte, Newell, and most recently in Summerset.  He worked various jobs and was a part of several Veterans and Purple Heart clubs.

In death he joins his parents, Maynard and Lucille; sister, Kathy; and brother, Loren.

Maynard is survived by his wife of 39 years, Wilma; stepdaughter, Maria; five grandchildren; and five great grandchildren; nephew, Leroy; and his niece, April.

Pallbearers are Herb Zobell, Gary Montreal, Sylvester Schad, Sam Eagle Boy, LeRoy Tyon, Robert Dunbar, and Robert Eagle Man.

Honorary Pallbearers are Garland Maupin and family, Oscar Archambault, Maria Shields and family, April Clark, Rapid City Purple Heart Veterans Organization, Hot Springs Veterans Home staff, Ft Meade VA Hospital staff, New Underwood Good Samaritan Society staff, Rapid City DAV, Rapid City VFW, Leroy Clark and family, Cheyenne Eagle Butte Veteran Organization, and Rita Bad Moccasin and family.

Services will be held at Our Lady of the Black Hills Catholic Church in Piedmont, SD.  Visitation will be from 3-5 pm on Monday, January 31 ^st followed by a Christian Wake service at 5pm.  Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am, Tuesday, February 1 ^st followed by burial at Black Hills National Cemetery.  Military honors will be provided by VFW Rushmore Post 1273 and the SD Army National Guard.