Sen. Jim Metzen Passes Away After Battle With Lung Cancer

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minnesota lawmakers are reacting after Democratic Sen. Jim Matzen passed away Monday night.

In September of 2015, Metzen said he was being treated for a recurrence of lung cancer. Four months later, Matzen announced he wouldn't seek re-election from the Minnesota Senate.

"Sen. Metzen had been a faithful public servant since he was first elected to the St. Paul City Council in 1967," DFL Chairman Ken Martin said. "In his 42-year legislative career, Sen. Metzen's ability to put partisan politics aside and build alliances with DFL and Republican senators alike, led to many leadership positions including President of the Minnesota Senate and Chairman of numerous committees.

Gov. Mark Dayton also released a statement on Metzen's passing.

"Senator Jim Metzen was a great DFL leader and a wonderful human being," Dayton said. "He served well his Senate District and the State of Minnesota. I extend my deepest condolences to his wife Sandie, family, and many, many friends."

Metzen was first elected to the House of Representatives as a 31-year-old and served six consecutive terms. He was then elected to the Senate in 1986 and was re-elected eight times.
"Metzen loved the Minnesota Senate, South St. Paul, hockey, and most of all his family," Lt. Governor Tina Smith said. "He represented his district with energy and commitment for 42 years. He was a great friend, and we will all miss him very much. I extend my deepest condolences to Sandie, Jim's family and friends, and his Senate family who loved him so much."

His 42 years in the Legislature make him one of Minnesota's longest-serving state lawmakers.