Frank Salsedo

Frank Sotonoma "Grey Wolf" Salsedo (May 20, 1929 – July 3, 2009) was a Native American actor. He was often cast in smaller parts centered on his Native American heritage.

As an actor, Salsedo has performed in movies such as The Ghost Dance, Magic in the Water (1995), Across the Great Divide (1976), Creepshow 2 (1987), Journey to Spirit Island (1988) and Best of the Best 2 (1993). He had a recurring role as White Eagle in Walker, Texas Ranger.

Early life and education Frank Sotonoma Salsedo was born on May 20, 1929, in Santa Rosa, California, to Gilbert and Helen Salsedo. He had five brothers (Delano, Lovedale Richard, Gilbert, Hal and Kenny) and six sisters (Helen Rose, Jane, Lola, Gertrude, Vera and Donna). He graduated from the Sherman Institute and then enlisted in the United States Navy. After his discharge he became a CPA and graduated from Sawyer's Business College.

Career Salsedo was the President of Jay Silverheels Acting School in Los Angeles, where he found his dream job as an actor. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild he made over 50 movies and helped other Native Americans in the film industry. Salsedo appeared in one episode of the short-lived 1977 series, Code R. One of his earliest roles in film was as Ocacio in The Ghost Dance (1980).

Salsedo played Charlie in Best of the Best 2 (1993). In 1995, Salsedo played Uncle Kipper in Magic in the Water. The next year, he portrayed Nakki in North Star (1996), opposite James Caan. He appeared in six episodes of Walker, Texas Ranger.

Personal life and death Salsedo was the hereditary chief of the Wappo tribe of Sonoma County, California.

Salsedo was married to Leta Stephens and they had two daughters, Lynette and Eugenia, and two sons, Ramon and Rick. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Delano, his sister Helen Rose Hageman and his wife.

In addition to his alias, "Grey Wolf", Salsedo also had an additional nickname, "Beverly Hills".

Salsedo died on July 3, 2009, in Manteca, California, at the age of 80. He was survived by five sisters, four brothers, and four children.

Filmography

Film

Television Year Film/Series Role Notes 1975 I Will Fight No More Forever White Bird 1976 The Quest Indian Chief Episode: "The Longest Drive" 1977 Code R Willie Episode 1-1 1979 CBS Afternoon Playhouse Joey and Redhawk Credited as Frank Sotonoma Salsedo 1979 Centennial Sam Lopez Episode: "The Scream of Eagles" 1982 House Calls Episode: "It Ain't Necessary to Sew" 1982 The Legend of Walks Far Woman Many Scalps Made-for-TV movie 1983 Buffalo Bill Episode: "Buffalo Bill and the Movies" 1984 The Mystic Warrior Sinte Made-for-TV movie 1990 Northern Exposure Uncle Anku Episode: "Brains, Know-How and Native Intelligence" 1990 Quantum Leap Grandfather: Mr. Washakee (Kinu) Episode: "Freedom, November 22, 1970" 1990 Montana Joe Hold His Gun Television film 1993 Northern Exposure Uncle Anku Episode: "Love's Labour Mislaid" 1993 Picket Fences Chippewa chief, "Bill" Episode: "Rights of Passage" 1995–2001 Walker, Texas Ranger White Eagle Various episodes 1996 Mighty Morphin Alien Rangers True of Heart Episode: "Sowing the Seas of Evil" 1996 Power Rangers Zeo Sam Trueheart 4 episodes 1998 JAG Johnny Blackhorse Episode: "The Return of Jimmy Blackhorse"