Former Council Delegate David B. Rico has died at 88

Former Council Delegate David B. Rico has died at the age of 88, the Navajo Nation Council said, citing family reports.

Rico died on Saturday, Aug. 29. He 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, and he 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. 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,” said Speaker Crystalyne Curley.

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.

Services for David B. Rico are being arranged, the Council said.