Nebraska State Sen. Rich Pahls dies at age 78
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Sen. Rich Pahls has died at the age of 78, according to Nebraska lawmakers.
Effective immediately, Gov. Pete Ricketts ordered all state flags to be flown at half-staff through sunset Thursday.
“Senator Pahls was a dedicated public servant and a great man. He was committed to improving his community, first as an educator and then through elected service,” Ricketts said in a written statement. “Nebraska lost a true leader today. Susanne and I are praying for the Pahls family, the Millard community, and the countless Nebraskans Sen. Pahls impacted as they mourn his loss.”
Pahls, who was born in Jewel, Kansas, served District 31 in Omaha. He was elected to the State Legislature in 2004 and then reelected in 2008.
Pahls was term-limited in 2012 but successfully sought his old seat in 2020.
Between his stints in the Legislature, he served on the Omaha City Council.
Pahls was formerly an administrator at Millard Public Schools.
During the 107th Legislature, Pahls introduced 10 bills, three of which passed.
I am so saddened to learn about the passing of our colleague, Senator Rich Pahls. He was a wise and thoughtful man who exemplified the Nebraska Unicameral at its best. And he loved my dog. ❤️ Rich, Nebraska will miss you, and I thank you for all you gave us.
— Senator Megan Hunt 😷 (@NebraskaMegan) April 27, 2022
The world lost a great man today with the death of Senator Rich Pahls. One of our Senators who believed in the non-partisan history of our great Unicameral. He was kind and a great conversationalist. @richpahls @UnicamUpdate
— Senator Carol Blood (@senatorblood) April 27, 2022
We are saddened to hear of the passing of a good friend, Sen Rich Pahls. He was truly one of the good guys, who would look for a way to bridge the divide. His dedication to education and the Millard area will be noted for years to come. Angie and I send our prayers to his family.
— Don Bacon 🇺🇸 🇺🇦 (@DonJBacon) April 27, 2022
