Former State Rep. Kate Ebli Dead At 52

Former State Representative Kate Ebli has died.  The Monroe County Democrat had recently finished her second term in office. 

The 52-year old, who died Sunday  night, had been battling breast cancer for six years.  Her family says the diagnosis came during a routine mammogram.

Ebli completed her second full term in the Michigan House last week after she lost a re-election bid to Republican Dale Zorn in November. Ebli was first elected to the House in a special election in 2006.

She is survived by a husband and daughter.

"Kate retired from Comcast to serve Michigan and make our state a better place for all of us, and she literally gave her life for public service," said Nick Ebli, Kate's husband. "Kate's integrity was paramount and her love for her family knew no bounds. It's difficult to express in words the incredible woman Kate was and how fiercely and courageously she fought this last year. Our family deeply appreciates the outpouring of support and admiration for Kate from our community and across the state," he said.

Colleagues said Ebli was a passionate advocate for her community.

 "Her experiences as an executive, a mother, a wife and someone who fought cancer fueled her passion to help others and make a difference in our state," said former Rep. Kathy Angerer (D-Dundee). "Kate was an inspiration to all of us and she will be missed. I will miss the time we spent together not only serving in the Legislature but as true friends."

In expressing his condolences, Congressman John Dingell says the state has lost a gifted public servant. "Kate was effective, smart, tenacious and truly dedicated to the public good. Whether it was fighting for affordable health care, protecting public safety or advocating for our kids so they can get the education they need to compete, Kate could always be counted on to stand up for the people who needed it the most," Dingell said.

Funeral arrangements are pending.