Rapid City - Thomas Michael "T.J." Red Leaf, Jr., 37, entered the Spirit World on Thursday, July 31, 2014 at the Rapid City Regional Hospice Auxiliary House after a battle with liver cancer. Thomas was born in Rapid City, SD on April 21, 1977 to Michael and Priscilla Red Leaf. At a young age, Thomas had a love for music, race cars, drawing, and tinkering with anything from toys to household appliances. At the age of 17, Thomas was diagnosed with three autoimmune diseases, and in 2008 was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, all of which greatly affected his day-to-day live. He had his ups and downs, but never let the diseases defeat him. He kept a positive outlook on life through the strength of his faith. In March of 2014, Thomas was diagnosed with terminal cancer. For everyone around him, it was a scary and rough time, but Thomas never let the grim future knock down his spirits and strength. During his stay at the Hospice House over the past four months, he developed several friendships with the staff whom also lifted his spirits during his fight with cancer. Thomas was a proud father, a loving son, an amazing brother, and a caring friend. Thomas is survived by his parents Mike and Priscilla Red Leaf, son Tyler Mattson, brother Timothy Red Leaf, sister Lea Red Leaf, nephew Christian Red Leaf and countless aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Steven and Vivian Red Leaf and Richard and Bernadine Green, aunts Theresa Green and Linda Red Leaf and cousins Joe, Steven, Brandon, Jenny, and Kateri. Visitation will be 5:00-10:00 pm, Wednesday, August 6 at Mother Butler Center, 321 Knollwood Drive with a Rosary at 7:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 am Thursday, August 7 at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church, 221 Knollwood Drive with Rev. David Matzko, S.J. officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. An online guestbook for T.J. may be signed at www.osheimschmidt.com