Overview:
Former Navajo Nation Council Delegate David B. Rico, who represented several Navajo chapters and dedicated decades to public service, died Aug. 29 at age 88, prompting tributes from the 25th Navajo Nation Council and family members.
The 25th Navajo Nation Council is mourning the death of former Council Delegate David B. Rico, who died Saturday, Aug. 29, at the age of 88, according to his family.
Rico served on the 20th and 21st Navajo Nation Councils, representing the chapters of Pueblo Pintado, Torreon/Star Lake, Ojo Encino, Counselor and Whitehorse Lake. During his tenure on the Navajo Nation Council, he served on the Transportation and Community Development Committee.
He also served his community as a chapter vice president and president.
“We remember former Delegate Rico for his diligence and commitment to addressing land issues that impacted the Navajo people,” Speaker Crystalyne Curley said. “As a veteran and public servant, he dedicated his life to serving both the Navajo Nation and the United States, and we honor his legacy and contributions.”
Rico was from Torreon/Star Lake Chapter. He was Kin Lichii’nii and born for the Tó’dich’ii’nii clan. His maternal grandfathers were Naakai Diné’é, and his paternal grandfathers were Bit’ahnii.
The mother of his children, Alice Sandoval, preceded him in death. Rico leaves behind five children. In his final years, he lived with his companion, Verna Ben.
His niece, Alvina Rico, remembered him as a strong influence in her life and a supporter of his extended family.
“He had a lot of impact on me. I was raised by his mother, my grandmother, and he was always there for me,” she said. “He supported all his nieces and nephews and encouraged his family to pursue secondary education. He encouraged everyone to get ahead and be independent.”
The 25th Navajo Nation Council extended its condolences and prayers to Rico’s family and loved ones, honoring his years of service to the Navajo Nation, his community and the United States.
