IOWA — Iowa Representative Martin Graber died on Friday morning at the age of 72, Speaker of the House Pat Grassley announced.
Graber, a Republican representing House District 100, was first elected to the House in 2020. Before his time in office he served in the Army National Guard for 32 years before retiring as a Brigadier General.
Graber leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Coni, two daughters, and two granddaughters.
Following the announcement of Graber’s death many politicians shared their condolences to his family as well as their fond memories of working alongside him.
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 Captiol 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.
Speaker of the House Pat Grassley
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.
Governor Kim Reynolds
Rep. Martin Graber was an incredible husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family and who took deep pride in serving his community, state, and nation. In his years of service in the Iowa National Guard and the Iowa Legislature, Iowans could count on him to be a man of integrity. Whether it was attending the Tri-State Rodeo like we did last summer or visiting a small business in his district, I always enjoyed spending time with him. My heart goes out to Coni, his beloved wife, and the entire Graber family, as well as his many friends and constituents. We will miss him and the significant impact he made on so many.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig
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.
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com.
