Former Oneida Nation chairman Gerald Danforth dies at age 78
Gerald "Jerry" Danforth, the former chairman for Oneida Nation, died June 1 at the age of 78.
'Today, it is with the utmost honor and respect that we acknowledge Jerry Danforth and all that he stood for, not only here in Oneida but across Indian Country and the United States of America. Thank you for your service', said Tehassi Hill, chairman of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, in a news release.
Danforth served two terms as tribal chairman. Danforth's priorities included strengthening gaming interests, economic development, health care, higher education and Oneida language preservation, the news release said.
Danforth was a 30-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, retiring in 1994, according to the news release. He was a veteran of Vietnam and Desert Storm.
"His actions represented the best of Oneida's values; his decisions always represented his commitment to the most critical challenges and his decisions were grounded in the best interests of the whole Nation," his obituary read. "He will long be remembered and significantly missed.
Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. June 6 at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. 10 St. in De Pere, where veterans will give a final salute at 5 p.m. Visitation will continue 8-10 a.m. June 7 at the Oneida Turtle School, N7125 Seminary Road in Oneida. Service begins at 10 a.m., followed by the burial in the Oneida Sacred Burial Grounds with military honors.
Oneida Nation says flags for the Oneida Nation will be flown half-staff until Danforth is laid to rest.
Rashad Alexander can be contacted at ralexander@gannett.com and 920-431-8214.
This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Former Oneida Nation chairman Gerald Danforth dies at age 78.
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