Staff Reports

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — The 25th Navajo Nation Council reported the passing of former Council Delegate David B. Rico in a Sept. 1 press release. Rico passed away on Aug. 29, at the age of 88, according to family reports.

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, 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 U.S., and we honor his legacy and contributions.”

Rico was from Torreon/Star Lake Chapter and is Kin Lichii’nii and born for the Tó’dich’ii’nii clan. His maternal grandfathers are Naakai Diné’é, and his paternal grandfathers are Bit’ahnii. The mother of his children, Alice Sandoval, preceded him in death and he leaves behind five children. In his final years, he lived with his companion, Verna Ben.

“He had a lot of impact on me. I was raised by his mother, my grandmother, and he was always there for me,” his niece, Alvina Rico, 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.”

Services for Rico are being arranged. For questions, contact Alvina at (505) 290-4380.