'Leave no dream unfulfilled, and no good deed undone'

David Matheson, one of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s most influential leaders, died suddenly Tuesday morning.

In its announcement of Matheson’s passing, the Tribe called it a "loss of a revered, accomplished and visionary leader.”

“Dave has left us a profound legacy,” said Chief J. Allan, chairman of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe. "He was a true visionary who had the foresight to see the great possibilities for the Tribe and Native Americans. He was the architect behind much of our enterprises, endeavors that have enabled us to thrive as we stride forward in the 21st century.”

Matheson was the driving force behind construction of the Coeur d’Alene Casino and Circling Raven Golf Club, which have been highly beneficial for the Tribe and its members.

Matheson was described in the Tribe's announcement as a mover and shaker of incalculable proportions for the Tribe. His "hard, smart and impassioned" work helped him ascend to the highest federal Native American post. He served under President George H.W. Bush from 1990 to 1993 as head of the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs.

“Dave was my mentor," Coeur d’Alene Casino CEO and Coeur d'Alene Tribe member Laura Penney said. "I learned so much from him about how to treat people, how to be a strong but kind leader. He is loved dearly and will be missed deeply."

Matheson was a Coeur d’Alene Tribal Council member at the time of his passing, a position to which he was elected multiple times. He also previously served as chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Council, the youngest to be elected to the position.

Matheson earned a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Washington in Seattle in 1989. He completed his undergraduate work at the university from 1970 to 1974. He majored in political science with plans to go to law school.

Matheson leaves behind his wife, Jenny. Together they raised five children and have more than two dozen grandchildren. His favorite hobby and pastime was riding and training horses, spending active time with his children and grandchildren and enjoyment of the outdoors, hunting and fishing.

His personal philosophy: "The Great Creator promised no one a tomorrow, or an easy time ... no one. When the new day comes, greet it with great thankfulness. It is a time not used by anyone. Use it for something good, even great. It's the one life we have. Leave no dream unfulfilled, and no good deed undone.”