"The Coachella Valley and all of Indian Country have lost a great leader.

Richard Milanovich, chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians for 28 years, died Sunday morning, surrounded by his family at Eisenhower Medical Center. He was 69.

Leaders throughout the valley remembered Milanovich as a tough but personable statesman respected by presidents, governors and members of Congress.

Rep. Mary Bono Mack said Milanovich brought his personal ethic — hard work and self-reliance — to everything he tackled."

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Editorial: Valley loses a strong leader in Milanovich (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 3/13)

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Richard Milanovich, Agua Caliente chairman, passes at 69 (3/12)