Political leaders express sadness, condolences upon death of Nebraska State Sen. Rich Pahls

OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — On Wednesday morning, Nebraska state senators started tweeting that Sen. Wealthy Pahls has died. Nebraska GOP Chairman Dan Welch confirmed Pahls’ passing to three Information Now.

Pahls represents District 31, which is in southwest Douglas County.

In accordance with a press release launched by Omaha Metropolis Council, Pahls served 32 years as a instructor and administrator with the Millard College District. He was first elected to the Unicameral in 2004 and, once more, in 2008. He served on the town council from 2013 to 2020 earlier than returning to serve within the legislature.

In accordance with Nebraska regulation, there might be a particular election to fill the District 31 seat within the legislature.

Assertion from the Workplace of Wealthy Pahls — Timothy Duey and Samantha Nelson:

“It’s with sorrow and deepest remorse that we inform you, that after a protracted and distinguished profession of public service, State Senator Wealthy Pahls has handed away as a consequence of issues from most cancers. The senator’s household asks for privateness throughout this troublesome time. Thanks to your type consideration.”

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued a press release by way of e-mail on the passing of Pahls:

“Wealthy was a colleague throughout my time within the Nebraska Legislature and pal. He was an enthusiastic advocate for his district and our state. There have been many occasions once I counted on his assist as we labored collectively on vital challenges going through Nebraskans. Wealthy acknowledged and supported options that join the residents of Nebraska like investments in infrastructure and good instructional alternatives for our youngsters. He might be missed. My prayers are along with his household.”

Gov. Pete Ricketts issued the next assertion:

“Sen. Pahls was a devoted public servant and an amazing man. He was dedicated to bettering his group, first as an educator after which by means of elected service. Nebraska misplaced a real chief at the moment. Susanne and I are praying for the Pahls household, the Millard group, and the numerous Nebraskans Sen. Pahls impacted as they mourn his loss.”

Ricketts additionally stated in his emailed assertion that flags might be flown at half-staff instantly, and will stay lowered by means of the top of Thursday.

Metropolis of Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert:

“Wealthy Pahls’ profession in public service has touched hundreds of households in Omaha. As a highschool instructor, faculty professor, elementary college principal and administrator, state senator and Omaha metropolis council member, Wealthy prioritized studying, communication, advocacy, and open-mindedness. He did his homework, and infrequently requested unpopular questions earlier than making selections and voting.

I first labored with Wealthy when he was a Millard Public Faculties principal and I used to be a Millard Board of Training member. Later, He was my metropolis council consultant when he represented District 5. The individuals of the district may rely on Wealthy to hear and act on their behalf.

I supply my sympathy to his household and mates, and thank him for a lot of, a few years of friendship.”

Mark McHargue, on behalf of the Nebraska Farm Bureau:

“It’s a unhappy day in Nebraska as we mourn the loss of life of Omaha Sen. Wealthy Pahls. All the time considerate and inquisitive, Sen. Pahls elevated the talk on many points that impacted farmers and ranchers.”

“Throughout his profession in public service, Sen. Pahls was a stable conservative who served as a state senator for District 31 in Omaha for eight years from 2005 by means of 2013. He lately was re-elected in 2020. We misplaced a dedicated public servant, and our ideas and prayers are with the Pahls household.”

Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson, Chair of the Douglas County Board:

“On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, we’re saddened to listen to the passing of Senator Wealthy Pahls. Senator Pahls was a pal to Douglas County throughout his tenure within the Nebraska Legislature and as an Omaha Metropolis Councilman. Wealthy was man, a good man and an amazing consultant. He might be sorely missed. The Board needs to increase our deepest sympathies to his household, mates.”

Omaha Metropolis Council President Pete Festerson launched a press release on behalf of the council:

“Councilmembers had been knowledgeable at the moment in regards to the passing of State Senator and former Metropolis Councilmember Rick Pahls after a short sickness. Councilmembers prolong their sympathies, condolences and prayers to his household and the group he served for his or her profound loss.

Wealthy was a devoted public servant his entire life each as an educator and an elected official. He loved stirring the pot, however was all the time a voice of purpose and had an amazing humorousness as nicely. We are going to miss his management.”

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