Born in 1946 in Minnesota, Sheldon grew up on the Lower Sioux Indian Reservation as the youngest of eight siblings, surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of his Native American community.
From 1965 to 1969, he pursued his artistic inclinations by attending the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the Ray-Vogue School of Design in Chicago, Illinois, where he honed his skills in design and art.
In 1969, Sheldon's life took a dramatic turn when he was drafted into the military and sent to Vietnam, where he served with distinction and was awarded the bronze medal for his bravery and dedication.
Upon his return to the United States, Sheldon began a new chapter in his life, working as an artistic consultant at the Walt Disney Studios in Southern California, where he was responsible for developing displays for the New Disney World in Florida and contributing to various Disney movie productions.
Throughout his time at Disney, Sheldon also participated in numerous art shows and exhibitions, showcasing his talents to a wider audience.
In 1976, Sheldon made the bold decision to relocate to Hawaii, where he enrolled at the University of Hawaii and continued to nurture his artistic ambitions.
His television acting debut came in 1969, when he appeared as a featured actor on the iconic children's program Sesame Street, a role he played for four years, captivating audiences with his charm and charisma.
Upon his return to Los Angeles, Sheldon affiliated with the American Indian Registry for Actors, a prestigious organization dedicated to promoting Native American talent in the entertainment industry.
Through his affiliation with the registry, Sheldon appeared in a range of productions, including two feature films: Dances with Wolves (1990) and Son of the Morning Star (1991),as well as co-starring in an episode of the popular television series "L.A. Law" and in the drama "Miracle in the Wilderness".
