Two St. Cloud Lawmakers Pass Away

(KNSI) – Central Minnesota lost two state lawmakers in the last week.

Keith Hughes

Republican Keith Hughes died September 21st at age 85, and James “Jim” Pehler died September 22nd at age 79. St. Cloud Mayor Dave Kleis says he had the privilege to know both men.

“We chatted often. Both gentlemen were just really great individuals and represented the area well and truly will be missed.”

He says even though the men hadn’t been in public office for decades, they’re among the pioneers who helped guide the city into the modern era.

“I think when people haven’t served for a long time, we forget who they are. But that doesn’t mean they didn’t have a direct impact on the way the city of St. Cloud is now.”

Hughes served in the Minnesota Senate from 1964 to 1972 and served on multiple boards in the St. Cloud area. He was a lawyer with the Hughes Law Office, now called Quinlivan and Hughes.

Jim Pehler

Pehler was a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives from 1972 to 1980. He then served in the Minnesota Senate from 1981 to 1991. Pehler also served on numerous boards around the community and worked at St. Cloud State University.

Both men were laid to rest on Tuesday in St. Cloud.

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