COOS BAY, Ore. — Chief Donald "Doc" Slyter, tribal leader for the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw, died at the age of 72 on Nov. 4, the tribes reported Monday.
In 2020, he was elected to serve as tribal chief, a role he served in until his death. He passed after a long battle with cancer, at his home surrounded by family. He was married to his wife Debbie for 50 years.
Slyter was known for his deep dedication, determination, positive influence and conservation efforts regarding the restoration of lands, water, fish and wildlife.
"His lifelong perseverance, up until the very end, would certainly make our ancestral Warriors proud," the tribes said in a statement. "Never one to back down or admit defeat, he fought for what he believed was right."
Slyter spent most of his life living on the southern Oregon coast. He served as the chair of the Tribal Council from 1984 until 1987 and went on to later be elected to the Tribal Council in April 2015. He was elected for a second term in April 2019 and in May of that same year was once again elected as chairman. Slyter served in that role until he ran and was elected as tribal chief in April 2020.
He dedicated his life to the tribe by embodying the definition of a leader, attending events and connecting with other tribes on the west coast. He served on many boards, including the Tribe's Gaming Facility Operational Review Board. He was also active in the Tribal Committees. The tribes said the Culture Committee was of particular importance to him.
In 1984, Slyter witnessed the passage of federal legislation that federally recognized the tribes.
"His mission and goals and positive influence in areas of preservation and revitalizing of all aspects of the Tribe's culture, his ability to handcraft beautiful flutes and play, write and share songs often, his vision for us to one day be self-sufficient and never lose sight of our sovereignty will be his legacy for generations to come," the tribes said in a statement.
Tribal Council Chair Brad Kneaper reflected on the wisdom and impact of Slyter with a final message: "It is never goodbye Chief, but we will see you again."
Those looking for information about services for Chief Slyter can contact the Coos Bay Chapel.
