Former longtime Quapaw Nation leader passes away

The former chairman of the Quapaw Tribal Business Committee has passed away.

John Berrey died Saturday after a short illness.

He helped lead the Quapaw Nation for nearly two decades.

A joint statement from the Quapaw Nation and his family reads:

“With a heavy heart, the Berrey family is saddened to share that previous Quapaw Nation Business Committee Chairman John Berrey passed away. Chairman Berrey dedicated decades to the Quapaw Nation, serving as tribal chairman for 18 years. His contribution and his dedication to the advancement of the Nation will be felt for generations to come. Please lift this family and all Quapaw families in prayers as we grieve for his passing.”