Graber is survived by his wife, Coni, and his two daughters and their grandchildren.
DES MOINES, Iowa — State Rep. Martin L. Graber, R-Fort Madison, died early Friday morning, Speaker of the House Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, said in a statement.
Graber was 72 years old and represented House District 100 in Lee County. He was serving in his second term, holding the position since 2021.
A financial advisor by profession, Graber was also a retired Brig. Gen. of the Iowa National Guard.
Graber is survived by his wife, Coni, and his two daughters and their grandchildren.
Details of an ensuing special election to fill his vacancy have not been give at this time.
Full statement from Grassley:
“Our caucus is devastated by the unexpected passing of our friend and colleague Martin Graber. First and foremost, we extend our heartfelt prayers to his entire family during this difficult time, namely his two daughters, two granddaughters, and his wonderful wife of 49 years, Coni.
Martin’s legacy will be one of kindness, hard work, and service. He served 32 years in the Army National Guard, retiring as a Brigadier General. He was first elected to the Iowa House in 2020. He was beloved by his community.
His presence in the Capitol will surely be missed. He was a friend to all. His genuine care for everyone he encountered was clear wherever he went. He was an exceptional representative. He worked diligently and took his role as the voice of House District 100 very seriously.
As we grieve this loss, we pray for his soul, that he finds peace and eternal comfort with God.”
Statement from Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds:
“Kevin and I are heartbroken at the loss of our friend and colleague Representative Martin Graber. He served with distinction not only as a representative for his constituents in the Iowa House, but also as a career soldier in the Iowa National Guard where he held the rank of Brigadier General (Retired). He was passionate about his community, his family, and his faith. Martin was the best of us, and we send our heartfelt condolences to his wife of 49 years, Coni, his daughters, and his grandchildren.”
Statement from Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann:
“Rep. Martin Graber’s contributions to Iowa, the conservative movement, and the Republican Party are unmatched. He exemplified everything that was good and noble about a citizen legislator in our beloved state. Martin Graber was a patriot both in his uniform and in his role as a representative of the people. He was a friend and confidante, but more importantly, he was a tireless advocate for his constituents in southeast Iowa. We will miss his unmatched integrity, but those principles for which he stood for will stand even stronger. My deepest sympathy to his best friend and his treasured wife Coni Graber, his children, and family. Godspeed my friend.”
Statement from Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird:
“Rep. Martin Graber was a kind man with a heart of gold, strong faith, and a great sense of humor. I am devastated to hear of his sudden passing. Rep. Graber touched the lives of many throughout his service both in the military and to southeast Iowa as a state legislator. Bob and I are praying for his wife, Coni, and the entire Graber family.”
