By: Channel 9 Eyewitness News
news@kcautv.com
State Sen. Pat Ward, 55, a Republican from Clive, has died after a long battle with cancer, state officials confirmed Monday.
Ward had served in the Iowa Senate since 2004 after winning a special election to fill the seat of Mary Kramer, who had been appointed as U.S. ambassador to Barbados. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009, but continued to serve in the Senate and had been running for reelection this fall.
Iowa GOP Chairman A.J. Spiker said, "I am saddened to learn of the passing of Iowa State Senator Pat Ward. Public service and dedication to the people of Iowa were hallmarks of her career. On behalf of all Iowa Republicans, I would like to express our gratitude for Pat's service to the people of Iowa. Our thoughts and prayers are with Pat's friends and family during this difficult time."
Iowa Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds served in the Senate with Ward. She said, "I witnessed firsthand her dedication to the state of Iowa, and her incredible work every day on behalf of her constituents. Pat Ward was a dear friend, and the news of her passing is incredibly difficult and painful to hear. I hope all Iowans will look at her example, the way she cared for others and worked to make the world a better place, and remember her significant life and achievements. Our administration will miss her as a policy maker, and we all will personally miss her as a friend."
