Former United States Representative Dan Benishek died on Friday.
The former surgeon served in the 1st District, covering all of the Upper Peninsula and much of Northern Michigan from 2011-2017.
He was 69.
Almost immediately he pushed his number one cause in supporting veteran support and care.
His colleagues also note his ability to connect with Michiganders separated him from other members of congress.
“Sometimes there’s some tough questions and some tough circumstances that people want to talk about and Dan would come in and be very serious and focused on it,” said Rep. Bill Huizenga, “But then he would find the humorous side as well. Find a way to make people feel comfortable and that’s the mark of someone who’s not just a good politician but that’s being a good neighbor and a good friend.”
Huizenga also commended Benishek for returning to the Upper Peninsula after getting his medical degree. He said he could have gone anywhere but decided to return home.
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