Dick Lamm dead at 85: Former Colorado governor passes away after pulmonary embolism – a week before his birthday
FORMER Colorado Governor Dick Lamm has died aged 85, his wife revealed in a statement on Friday.
Lamm died on Thursday evening due to complications from a pulmonary embolism, a condition in which one or more arteries in the lungs become blocked by a blood clot.
"With great sadness, but also gratitude for a life well lived and in service to his beloved Colorado, I want to share the news of the death of my husband, former Governor Richard D. Lamm," Dottie Lamm wrote.
"He would have turned 86 next Tuesday but passed away yesterday evening surrounded by his family, following complications from a pulmonary embolism earlier in the week."
LONGEST-SERVING GOVERNOR
Lamm, a Democrat, served a governor from 1975 to 1987. He was one of the longest-serving governors in the state’s history.
He famously convinced Coloradans to reject the 1976 Winter Olympics. He also campaigned in 2018 against bringing the games to Colorado, citing environmental and financial concerns.
Before holding office, Lamm was in the US military, an attorney, and became a certified public accountant.
He eventually ventured into politics in 1966 when he was elected as a state representative – a position he held until 1974.
During his time in the legislature, he sponsored and helped pass the nation's first abortion law in 1967, the Denver Post reported.
The bill made it easier for women to get an abortion because of health issues or in cases of rape or incest.
'NEVER SHIED AWAY'
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis also released a statement mourning Lamm's death.
"I’m very saddened to hear about the passing of former Governor Dick Lamm and send my condolences to Dottie and his entire family," he wrote.
"I thank Governor Lamm for his service to the state of Colorado both as Governor and his many years teaching.
"Gov. Lamm took on tough issues, and he never shied away from civil political discourse and embraced collaboration.
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"Gov. Lamm’s legacy and leadership will be remembered in our state’s history as well as his work to make Colorado an even more amazing place."
Lamm is survived by his wife and two children, Scott Hunter Lamm and Heather Susan Lamm.
Funeral services are currently pending, Dottie Lamm said.
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