(ST PAUL, MINN) – Former Minnesota Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic has died.
The 62-year-old Minneapolis Democrat died Friday. She announced in February that she was stepping down as majority leader due to her battle with cancer.
“Senator Kari Dziedzic was a passionate legislator, a respected leader, and a trusted colleague and friend. She will be remembered for her integrity and her compassion for Minnesotans, something that we all saw as she continued to serve even as she battled cancer,” Senate Minority Leader Mark Johnson (R-East Grand Forks) said in a statement released to WDAY Radio News. “I’m deeply saddened at her passing and am praying for her family and friends as we all mourn this loss.”
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also reacted to the passing.
“Kari Dziedzic was a one-of-a-kind leader, ally, and friend. Humble and dedicated, Kari spent her time finding ways to bring people together and serve Minnesotans. And she was good at it,” said Governor Walz. “No one worked harder or got more done in one session as Majority Leader than Kari did. She was a talented legislator with old-school political savvy and a knack for relationship building. The scope of her work will color Minnesota history books forever. She used her personal experience to improve the lives of others battling a cancer diagnosis, including expanding paid medical leave to all and passing a law requiring insurance to cover wigs for cancer patients. Her legacy should inspire all of us in elected office to be better public servants. Gwen and I are sending love and peace to the Dziedzic family and her Northeast Minneapolis community.”
