Levi Cleveland, age 20, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, passed away leaving a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends and community. Though his time here was far too short, Levi lived a life deeply rooted in family tradition, an incredible work ethic, and unshakeable pride in his heritage. He was a proud member of both the Bear Clan of the Ho-chunk Nation and Louis Bull Tribe of the Cree Nation.

Visitation will be held at the Native American Church beginning on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Native American Church in Wisconsin Dells with Kyle White Eagle officiating. Burial will be at Spring Grove Cemetery in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.

Levi was born on August 2, 2006, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the son of Corey Shortneck and Jolie Ann Cleveland. Levi was known for his remarkable youthful energy and determination, he graduated from Challenge Academy in 2024 and later balancing his time working at Walmart and then FedEx. He brought a strong sense of dedication to everything he did, earning the respect of his coworkers, teachers and leaders and proving himself to be a reliable, driven young man.

Beyond his hard work, Levi’s true happiness was found on the open road, within the sacred fireplace, and along the powwow trail. He was happiest traveling with family, making countless memories across Canada and the United States. He walked a spiritual path, deeply loving and respecting his Native American Church way of life, finding strength, identity, and peace within those sacred prayers and traditions. These travels and teachings are deeply tied to his family’s rich legacy. Levi was incredibly proud to be a part of Ho-Chunk Station, the family drum group originally founded in 2007 by his late grandfather, Rick Cleveland, Sr. alongside his uncles, friends, and close-knit family. Levi helped carry forward the drum ways, morals and songs he was raised with. He was a gifted singer and powerful dancer, bringing beauty, speed and energy to the arena through both the Fancy Feather and Grass dance style. For Levi, the powerful rhythm of the drum, the motion of the dance, and the bond shared with his relatives wasn’t just a passion-it was his= entire world.

Levi leaves behind a legacy of beautiful travel memories, a reputation of hard work, and a family that will carry his spirit with them to every future destination, every song, and every sacred circle.

Levi is survived by Father, Corey Shortneck; Grandmothers, Nelsena Deschamp and Danielle Lewis; Aunts, Ilena Cleveland and Jackie Cleveland; Uncles, Timothy Deschamps, Terrence Cleveland, Delano Cleveland, David Cleveland, Buster Cleveland and Lucas Cleveland as well as many other friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Jolie Cleveland; Grandfather, Rick Cleveland, Sr; Uncle, Rick Cleveland Jr.