Ray Hillenbrand walks on
RAPID CITY – Prairie Edge has been a long time staple of downtown Rapid City and its owner, Ray Hillenbrand has made his journey Friday, May 31, at the age of 84.
Known for his benevolent spirit and quiet philanthropy, Hillenbrand has been supporting the Native American art community for many years through Prairie Edge. Hundreds of artists have made a living through the purchasing and selling of their pieces in the historic building in downtown Rapid City.
Over the years, Hillenbrand has supported, through his anonymous donations, the efforts of many community building organizations. His care for Rapid City and the people, Native and non-Native American alike, made giving of his time and energy an easy task. Financially, Hillenbrand is responsible for improving the lives of many through his support and generosity.
Hillenbrand has been well-respected and admired by many business leaders across the region. His dedication to keeping Native American culture vibrant and current has been the desired goal of many similar businesses that have come and gone over the years. The business owner always felt it was important to use the works of traditional leaders and culture bearers. The works of many great master artists in their genre can be found in Prairie Edge to this day, and will continue for many generations.
The owner of Prairie Edge was never one to bask in the glory of his work, but preferred to encourage others by giving them a handshake and a few words of encouragement. Downtown Rapid City will not be the same without the quiet gentleman pacing across the busy streets during the rush hour. Many people did not recognize him as they passed by, and Hillenbrand preferred it that way. His humility will be missed by his staff and friends.
For nearly the last two years, Hillenbrand has very proud that his business was the host of the local hit TV show, Oyate Today. During filming, the Prairie Edge owner would engage in conversations with the host and producers of the show. Although a big fan of the show, he never wanted to be on Oyate Today because that was not who he was. He avoided that type of recognition.
Newspaper publisher Tim Giago said of Ray, “I’ve known Ray for more than 30 years. More than once I asked him if we could do a story on him and Prairie Edge, but each time he declined. He told me he just didn’t want to make a big deal of what he was doing because it wasn’t a job, it was the love of his life.”
Oyate Today visited with artists and employees at Prairie Edge. The general consensus was that he would be missed. Hillenbrand walking around the various areas of the building and giving handshakes gave his employees encouragement that was reflected to visitors and patrons of the store.
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