Former Tohono O’odham Nation Chairman passes away

The death of Augustine Lopez Sr., who served as Tohono O’odham Nation chairman from 1971 to 1973, was announced last week by officials with the southern Arizona tribe. Tribal officials say Lopez was an Air Force veteran who later worked as a cowboy, rancher and an irrigator.

Lopez later served as director of the tribe’s work experience program and established its property and supply department.

He’s survived by his wife and six children. Lopez and his wife, Ida, had recently celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary.

A funeral is scheduled for Monday with burial on Tuesday.