Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Honors Former Leader Arlan D. Melendez
The Reno-Sparks Indian Colony (RSIC) paid tribute to its long-serving former Chairman, Arlan D. Melendez, with a heartfelt memorial service on Thursday morning. The event featured performances by the Eagle Wings Pageant Dancers, Powwow Dance Group, and the Truckee Paiute Singers, setting a tone of reverence and celebration.
Over a thousand attendees gathered to honor Melendez’s legacy, listening to stories and memories shared by his former colleagues. Marlene Yarrow, one of the speakers, reflected on Melendez’s humor and openness, expressing her gratitude, “He will surely be missed,” she said. “I will forever be grateful for him, and I thank his family for sharing him with us for all these years.”
Melendez’s impact over more than three decades of public service was highlighted by various local officials. Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve described him as a hero and an honorary mayor, admiring his unique ability to make individuals feel valued. “He had this really incredible way of making you feel very, very special, and like you were the only one that mattered,” she shared.
Republican Congressman Mark Amodei praised Melendez for his visionary leadership, which fostered economic growth and enhanced services like healthcare for the community. “The more self-sustaining he can make his organization, the more other stuff gets taken care of,” Amodei remarked.
Tributes also came from Democratic Senators Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto, who sent video messages that were played during the service, further underscoring Melendez’s broad influence and respect across political lines.
Scott Nebesky, who served as the tribe’s Director of Planning, remembered Melendez not only as a mentor but also as a dear friend. Struggling with the loss, he shared, “You just don’t expect to go to these things. You expect the next time you see someone that you’ve worked with for 20 years, that you’re going to go out fishing, and it’s this.”
