UPDATE: Statement from Montana Democratic Party Chairman Dennis McDonald on the passing of George Groesbeck:
“George fought for what he believed in and lived life to the fullest. We pause today to mourn the loss of our friend, but we will always celebrate his life. The thoughts and prayers of Democrats from every corner of Montana are with George’s family.”
UPDATE: Here’s a statement from Gov. Brian Schweitzer on the passing of George Groesbeck:
“George Groesbeck was a good man and a great friend. George had a large sense of humor; he loved and enjoyed life. He also had an unwavering commitment to serving the people of Butte,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer. “Nancy and I are keeping his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers.”
Montana House Speaker Bob Bergren, D-Havre, issued a statement this morning on the passing of George Groesbeck, a 38-year-old Democratic representative from Butte.
Bergren:
George was a great legislator, a great friend and a great man. He loved his hometown and fought for a new Butte, one that would embrace the history of the Mining City while looking forward to a new future. He will be missed dearly by the many people that he touched throughout his life. Today our thoughts and our prayers are with his family.
The cause of death is unknown. According to the Great Falls Tribune, Groesbeck, the human resources director for AWARE, Inc., died Sunday. Read the rest of the Trib story here. I did not know Groesbeck well but in my limited experience, he was the consummate Butte Democrat: moderate, business-oriented and personable. He also played in a pretty good band. I’ll update this post as more information becomes available.