PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Oregon Representative Gary Leif died on Thursday, House Republican Leader Christine Drazan confirmed in a statement.
Leif represented House District 2, which covers parts of Douglas, Jackson and Josephine Counties.
According to his biography, he was involved in public service for over 35 years. He was 64.
“I am deeply saddened by the unexpected loss of our friend and colleague Gary Leif. Gary’s sense of humor, his commitment to bipartisanship and his love of family and community marked his service in the Oregon Legislature,” Drazan said.
Senate President Peter Courtney said, “Roseburg lost one of its great champions today. Gary was a good person. Everyone liked him. He liked being a legislator and he was a good one. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
“It was an honor and a privilege to work with Representative Leif over the last several years,” said Senate Republican Leader Fred Girod (R-Lyons). “It was a pleasure to serve with him on the Ways and Means committee this last session. He was an honest and hard-working representative for the people of Southern Oregon. His common-sense approach to issues was a bright spot in the legislature, one that will not be easily filled. I am praying for his wife, family, and friends during this difficult time.”
