- Details
- By Tribal Business News Staff
- Economic Development
Bo Mazzetti, longtime chairman of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, died May 1 after battling cancer. He was 77.
A Vietnam veteran and Cal Poly graduate, Mazzetti dedicated his life to advancing tribal sovereignty and economic development. His leadership spanned over 16 consecutive years as Rincon tribal chairman, following earlier roles as vice chairman and council member.
In a statement, the tribe praised Mazzetti's dedication to tribal sovereignty while balancing community support. Under his leadership, the Rincon Band expanded its regional influence and philanthropic efforts, always keeping tribal members' wellbeing at the center of his work.
One of Mazzetti's most significant achievements came in 2017, when President Obama signed a water rights settlement ending a five-decade legal battle. As president of the San Luis Rey Indian Water Authority, Mazzetti led the coalition of five tribes that secured the historic agreement.
Mazzetti was “a giant in the world of California tribal affairs and tribal gaming” whose leadership philosophy centered on “talking to people instead of talking at people,” per a richly detailed obituary about him in the local Escondido Times-Advocate newspaper.
His career in tribal advocacy began with San Diego County, where he established both the Southern California Tribal Chairman's Association and later the statewide Tribal Chairman's Association. He founded the Reservation Transportation Authority and served on California's Native American Advisory Committee since 1998. Mazzetti was honored as grand marshal of the 5th annual VetFest parade in November 2024 and worked tirelessly on establishing the American Indian Veterans Memorial.
Before his chairmanship, Mazzetti operated Mazzetti and Company, a reservation-based general building, engineering and well-drilling business. His contributions earned him the California Indian Chamber of Commerce “Warrior Award” and the “Anna Sandoval Leadership Award” from the California Nations Indian Gaming Association.
Mazzetti is survived by his wife Mary, daughter Emily, and son Joseph. His family was with him in his final moments. Services are pending, and the family has requested privacy.
