Political leaders express sadness, condolences upon death of Nebraska State Sen. Rich Pahls

OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — On Wednesday morning, Nebraska state senators began tweeting that Sen. Rich Pahls has died. Nebraska GOP Chairman Dan Welch confirmed Pahls' passing to 3 News Now.

Pahls represents District 31, which is in southwest Douglas County.

According to a statement released by Omaha City Council, Pahls served 32 years as a teacher and administrator with the Millard School District. He was first elected to the Unicameral in 2004 and, again, in 2008. He served on the city council from 2013 to 2020 before returning to serve in the legislature.

According to Nebraska law, there will be a special election to fill the District 31 seat in the legislature.

Statement from the Office of Rich Pahls — Timothy Duey and Samantha Nelson:

"It is with sorrow and deepest regret that we inform you, that after a long and distinguished career of public service, State Senator Rich Pahls has passed away due to complications from cancer. The senator’s family asks for privacy during this difficult time. Thank you for your kind attention."

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued a statement via email on the passing of Pahls:

“Rich was a colleague during my time in the Nebraska Legislature and a good friend. He was an enthusiastic advocate for his district and our state. There were many times when I counted on his help as we worked together on important challenges facing Nebraskans. Rich recognized and supported solutions that connect the citizens of Nebraska like investments in infrastructure and good educational opportunities for our children. He will be missed. My prayers are with his family.”

Gov. Pete Ricketts issued the following statement:

“Sen. 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. 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.”

Ricketts also said in his emailed statement that flags will be flown at half-staff immediately, and should remain lowered through the end of Thursday.

City of Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert:

"Rich Pahls’ career in public service has touched thousands of families in Omaha. As a high school teacher, college professor, elementary school principal and administrator, state senator and Omaha city council member, Rich prioritized learning, communication, advocacy, and open-mindedness. He did his homework, and often asked unpopular questions before making decisions and voting.

I first worked with Rich when he was a Millard Public Schools principal and I was a Millard Board of Education member. Later, He was my city council representative when he represented District 5. The people of the district could count on Rich to listen and act on their behalf.

I offer my sympathy to his family and friends, and thank him for many, many years of friendship."

Mark McHargue, on behalf of the Nebraska Farm Bureau:

“It is a sad day in Nebraska as we mourn the death of Omaha Sen. Rich Pahls. Always thoughtful and inquisitive, Sen. Pahls elevated the debate on many issues that impacted farmers and ranchers.”

“During his career in public service, Sen. Pahls was a solid conservative who served as a state senator for District 31 in Omaha for eight years from 2005 through 2013. He recently was re-elected in 2020. We lost a committed public servant, and our thoughts and prayers are with the Pahls family.”

Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson, Chair of the Douglas County Board:

"On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, we are saddened to hear the passing of Senator Rich Pahls. Senator Pahls was a friend to Douglas County during his tenure in the Nebraska Legislature and as an Omaha City Councilman. Rich was a good man, a fair man and a great representative. He will be sorely missed. The Board wishes to extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends."

Omaha City Council President Pete Festerson released a statement on behalf of the council:

"Councilmembers were informed today about the passing of State Senator and former City Councilmember Rick Pahls after a brief illness. Councilmembers extend their sympathies, condolences and prayers to his family and the community he served for their profound loss.

Rich was a dedicated public servant his whole life both as an educator and an elected official. He enjoyed stirring the pot, but was always a voice of reason and had a great sense of humor as well. We will miss his leadership."

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