Visitation In D.C. Today For Former Rep. Oberstar
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Friends, colleagues and relatives are gathering in Washington D.C. on Wednesday to honor the life and work of former Minnesota Congressman Jim Oberstar.
Family members there would be a visitation for relatives and friends from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Oberstar's private burial is scheduled to be held at Our Lady of Mercy in Potomac, Maryland at 11 a.m. on Thursday.
Oberstar, who represented northeastern Minnesota for 36 years and brought millions of dollars to the state as chair of the House Transportation Committee, died unexpectedly in his sleep early Saturday morning. He was 79 years old, and was Minnesota's longest-serving congressional representative.
His former chief of staff, Bill Richard, said Oberstar died at his home in Potomac.
Richard said Oberstar was not ill. Oberstar's family said they are heartbroken.
"Jim was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and brother," the family statement said. "While we mourn the loss of a good man, we also celebrate his life and his service. We ask for your thoughts and prayers, and understanding, at this very difficult time."
