Richard Milanovich, the longtime chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, died on Sunday. He was 69.

Milanovich grew up on the reservation in Palm Springs. Despite owning some of the most valuable land in the area, most tribal members lived in poverty due to unfair leasing and business practices.

The situation began to improve when Milanovich's mother, LaVerne Saubel, and other Agua Caliente women lobbied for change in the 1950s and 1960s. Milanovich himself joined the tribal council in 1978 and rose to the position of chairman in 1984.

"There was no one like Chairman Milanovich. He was a great teacher, an inspirational mentor, and most of all, a friend. We were fortunate to have his experience, wise counsel and incredible foresight for so long," Vice Chairman Jeff L. Grubbe said in a statement. "Chairman Milanovich strongly believed that our younger members of the Tribe must understand the battles that were fought and won. Only through understanding our past can we forge a progressive future for our people and the generations to come."

Under Milanovich's tenure, the tribe became successful in Indian gaming. He helped push for the successful passage of ballot propositions that led to the signing of Class III gaming compacts.

Get the Story:
Richard Milanovich, Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' longtime chairman, dies at 69 (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 3/12)
Richard Milanovich remembered as great leader, friend, philanthropist (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 3/12)
Richard Milanovich among most politically powerful Indian leaders (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 3/12)
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians statement on Richard Milanovich's passing (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 3/11)
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Agua Caliente Tribal Chairman Richard Milanovich Dies At 69 (KESQ-TV 3/11)