NAFOA mourns the loss of Daniel “Danny” James Tucker, who served as Chairman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. Chairman Tucker passed away on October 24, 2025, at the age of 73.
During his tenure as Chairman, Tucker focused on building the Tribe’s financial capacity and long-term economic stability. He helped launch the Sycuan Tribal Development Corporation in 2001, expanding the Tribe’s economic portfolio and establishing a framework for strategic business ventures.
Chairman Tucker previously served as Vice-Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association and as Chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association. His leadership helped shape Tribal gaming policy in California and nationwide.
In 2010, NAFOA recognized his decades of service with a Lifetime Achievement Award during our Fall Finance and Tribal Economies Conference.
“Chairman Tucker loved to perform and sing! He was a soulful crooner—he even made a CD,” recalled NAFOA 1st Vice President VaRene Martin, who worked at Sycuan during his tenure. “But he also knew how to run a business and build a team.” That combination of personal charm and business acumen defined his leadership style and his success.
We extend our deepest sympathy to Chairman Tucker’s family, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, and all those whose lives he touched throughout his years of service to Indian Country.
