David Matheson Obituary, Death – David Matheson, one of the most significant chiefs of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, passed away unexpectedly early Tuesday morning. The Tribe referred to Matheson’s demise as the “loss of a renowned, accomplished, and visionary leader” in the statement it issued after the news of his passing became public.
The legacy that Dave has left for us is very remarkable, said Chief J. Allan, leader of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe. “He was a true visionary who had the foresight to see the huge prospects for the Tribe and Native Americans in general. He was the mastermind behind the majority of our businesses, the undertakings that have made it possible for us to flourish as we move forward into the 21st century.
Matheson was the primary impetus behind the development of the immensely successful Coeur d’Alene Casino and Circling Raven Golf Club, both of which have been of great assistance to the Tribe and its individual members.
According to the announcement made by the Tribe, Matheson is a “mover and shaker” for the Tribe on a scale that cannot be adequately measured. His labor, which he describes as “hard, brilliant, and impassioned,” was a major factor in his ascent to the highest federal Native American job. Between the years 1990 and 1993, he was President George H.W. Bush’s nominee to head the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Laura Penney, the Chief Executive Officer of the Coeur d’Alene Casino and a member of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, remarked that “Dave was my mentor.” “I learned a lot about how to respect people and how to be a strong yet caring leader from him. ” He was cherished by many people and their hearts will be broken by his passing.
At the time of his passing, Matheson was serving as a member of the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Council, a post to which he had been elected on many occasions. He also formerly held the office of chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Council, being the youngest person ever elected to hold that position.
In 1989, Matheson graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle with a Master of Science degree in Business Administration. From 1970 to 1974, he attended the university and successfully completed all of the requirements for his undergraduate degree. He graduated with a degree in political science and intends to pursue a legal education.