Carl Venne, the late chairman of the Crow Tribe of Montana, died of natural causes stemming from heart complications, the county coroner said.

Venne, 62, died in his sleep early Sunday. Tributes poured in from tribal leaders, members of Congress and President Barack Obama, who was adopted into the tribe last May.

"I was honored to have worked with Chairman Venne, a strong tribal leader, who implored us to uphold treaties and honor Native ancestors. Carl's leadership of his tribe and his fervent quest for a better life for his people is inspiring, and his passing serves as a reminder of the work that lies ahead," Obama said.

According to KULR-TV, Venne's will lie in state at the Crow Agency multi-purpose building Tuesday from 1pm to 6pm and Wednesday from 1pm to 7pm. A memorial tribute will take place Wednesday from 5pm to 6pm Wednesday. His funeral will be Thursday at 10am. at the Crow multi-purpose building.

Get the Story:
Venne died of heart illness, say officials (The Billings Gazette 2/17)
Venne's Cause of Death (KULR-TV 2/17)

Related Stories:
President Obama statement on passing of Carl Venne (2/16)
Carl Venne, chairman of Crow Tribe, dies at 62 (2/16)