U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn, a Minnesota Republican, has “passed away peacefully” following a battle with kidney cancer, his family has revealed.
The congressman was 59 years old.
“It is with a broken heart, shattered spirit, and overwhelming sadness I share my husband, Congressman Jim Hagedorn, passed away peacefully last night,” his wife, Jennifer Carnahan, said.
“Jim loved our country and loved representing the people of southern Minnesota,” she added.
“Every moment of every day he lived his dream by serving others.
“There was no stronger conservative in our state than my husband; and it showed in how he voted, led, and fought for our country.
“Jim was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, brother-in-law, son-in-law, Vikings, Penguins and Twins fan and will be missed and remembered by many.
“While nothing can accurately prepare you for the unimaginable pain, intense sorrow, suffocating grief, and seemingly never-ending emptiness that engulfs the entire body, soul, and spirit when your forever love passes away.
“At least we can smile knowing Jim is smiling from heaven encouraging us to keep chasing our dreams, loving unconditionally, and fighting for the country.
“Jim Hagedorn, I love you. I miss you.
“I feel empty without you. I will forever be holding your hand.”
Rep. Elise Stefanik, the House GOP Conference chairwoman, said “The entire House Republican Conference mourns the loss of our friend and colleague @RepHagedorn.
“Jim was a brave and tireless advocate for his constituents throughout his time in Congress.
“He was a fighter. We pray for his family and community. He will be deeply missed.”
Minnesota GOP Chairman David Hann said: “Our hearts go out to his wife Jennifer and all his loved ones in this difficult time.
“Jim lived a legacy of service to our state and our country.
“Please join us in praying for Jim and his loved ones in this time of sorrow.”
In July of last year, Hagedorn revealed his cancer had come back.
“Be assured, I will continue to fight for America and serve the people of Minnesota’s First Congressional District with the highest level of energy and enthusiasm.
“I remain upbeat and view the future as bright. Jesus Christ is watching over me,” he added.
Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.) said:
“Jim and I served in the U.S. House during a time of many great challenges for our nation and for our state — and all the while, he bravely endured the personal challenge of cancer treatment with dignity and grace while serving our country and his constituents.
“Despite our policy differences on many issues, Jim and I were united in the common goal of achieving greater opportunities for future generations of Minnesotans.
“I want to offer my deepest condolences to Jim’s family and the people of the First Congressional District during this difficult time.
“The Minnesota Congressional delegation is grateful for Representative Jim Hagedorn’s service to our country.”
