WASHINGTON, D.C. – It is with deep sadness that the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) announces the passing of Daniel “Danny” James Tucker, longtime former Chairman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation (Sycuan), and a pioneering leader in the tribal gaming movement. Chairman Tucker passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025, at his home in El Cajon, CA, at the age of 73.
Chairman Tucker served multiple terms as Tribal Chair (1993–1996 and 2003–2014) and guided the tribe through the transformative period of Class III gaming. Equally important was his role on the national stage: he served as Vice-Chairman of what was then the National Indian Gaming Association. He helped shape the organization’s early formation and growth.
Under his leadership, the Sycuan Band not only expanded its gaming enterprise, but also dedicated itself to community investment, cultural preservation, and regional partnerships. His advocacy and presence were evident in state-level gaming compact negotiations, federal advocacy efforts, and throughout Indian Country’s evolving economic development agenda.
“Danny Tucker was one of the true visionaries of modern tribal gaming – a man who understood that sovereignty, economic development, and community well-being are inseparable,” said David Z. Bean, Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA). “He helped build the foundation of what the IGA has become, and his leadership resonated far beyond his home in San Diego. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, the Sycuan Band, and all who were fortunate to know him. His work will continue to guide us as we carry forward the promise he believed in.”
Tucker was born on February 5, 1952, in San Diego County and was a prominent leader in tribal gaming and business. He graduated from Santana High School in 1970. At 18, he served as Vice-Chair of the Sycuan during the development of Class II high-stakes bingo. He later served as Tribal Chair during the transition to Class III gaming. Tucker also served as Vice-Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, traveling nationwide to engage in media and congressional advocacy alongside the late Chairman Rick Hill. Additionally, he was the Chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association during pivotal moments in California’s gaming history, including Proposition 1A in 2000 and the compact era. Under his leadership, Sycuan’s enterprise investments expanded significantly, and the tribe became a model for strategic tribal-business diversification and community development.
Services for Chairman Tucker include a traditional wake on Friday, November 7, at 5:00pm at the Sycuan Church, followed by graveside services on Saturday, November 8, at 10:00am on the Sycuan Reservation, and a celebration of life gathering afterward.
The Indian Gaming Association extends our deepest condolences to Chairman Tucker’s wife, Lori Tucker; his children and grandchildren; the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation; and the many tribal colleagues, friends, and associates whose lives he touched. May his legacy continue to uplift Indian Country for generations to come.
