Edward Velarde leaves behind legacy of service
Kalle Benallie
ICT
Edward Velarde passionately and tirelessly served the Jicarilla Apache Nation in northern New Mexico for decades. He served as council member, vice president and began serving as president in 2019 until his death.
Velarde died at age 76 on May 12. Vice President Sonja Newton has resumed his duties as president.
Velarde served in the U.S. Air Force as an engine mechanic and was a Vietnam War veteran. Afterwards, he returned home to Dulce, New Mexico and worked as a housing director and maintenance director.
“During his tenure, President Velarde spearheaded several key initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for the Jicarilla Apache people. His efforts in education, healthcare, and economic development have left an indelible mark on our community. He was also a strong proponent of preserving our cultural heritage and traditions, ensuring that the values and history of the Jicarilla Apache Nation remain vibrant and respected,” the Jicarilla Apache Nation said in a statement.
Many leaders and tribal leaders in New Mexico shared their condolences and memories of Velarde on social media.
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham praised Velarde’s leadership and his commitment to strengthening the state-tribal relationship. Lujan Grisham ordered all state flags to be flown at half-staff on May 15.
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“One look no further than his leadership on energy and rural economic development to understand his commitment to his tribal community and the State of New Mexico,” she said in a press release.
New Mexico Sen. Martin Heinrich said in a statement how he worked with Velarde through the Navajo-Gallup Water Project in order to deliver long-term water security and other issues the tribe was pursuing like clean energy, access to health care, broadband access, safe transportation and housing.
“President Velarde was a dedicated leader guided by his passion for serving others and rooted in Apache tradition and culture. As President of the Jicarilla Apache Nation and as a veteran, he leaves behind a true legacy of service to his community and our nation,” Heinrich said.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe Chairman Melvin J. Baker and council said the Jicarilla Apache Nation is a valued neighbor.
“President Velarde was a strong believer in the importance of tribal-to-tribal relationships, which he consistently exemplified throughout his leadership,” the tribe said.
Velarde is survived by three sons, five daughters and two brothers, 16 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
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