Ernest L. “Ernie” Stevens Jr. — who led the Indian Gaming Association for more than 20 years and helped oversee unprecedented growth in tribal gaming — died suddenly on Friday, Sept. 26. Stevens, a citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin and chairman of the Indian Gaming Association board, was 66.
His family issued a statement late Friday acknowledging his death. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Dad and Papa, Ernie Stevens Jr. We ask for privacy at this time as our family navigates this profound loss.”
Stevens’ death came just weeks after he was recognized in Milwaukee for leading the association during a time when tribal gaming operations generated $43.9 billion in gaming revenue during fiscal year 2024, marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking performance.
