Coachella Valley pioneer, Ernie Dunlevie, dead at 96

A man who helped shape the Coachella Valley when it comes to aviation, real estate, health care, and golf has passed away.

Ernie Dunlevie died Monday morning, according to a statement from his family.

Dunlevie was the last surviving co-founder of the Palm Springs Classic which eventually became the Bob Hope Desert Classic and is now the Humana Challenge in Partnership with the Clinton Foundation.

He was also an original board member of Eisenhower Medical Center. And, a developer of Bermuda Dunes Airport and Bermuda Dunes Country Club.

Dunlevie is survived by his wife, Joy, four sons, and six grandchildren.

Services haven’t been arranged yet.

Ernie Dunlevie was 96-years old.