FORT MADISON, Iowa — Lee County State Representative Martin Graber (R-Fort Madison) reportedly died Friday morning at the age of 72.
Condolences poured in from Graber’s colleagues in Des Moines following the unexpected loss.
Gov. Reynolds issued the following statement, sharing her condolences with Graber’s family.
“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.”
House Speaker Pat Grassley said in a statement Friday that Graber’s death was unexpected and he’ll be missed at the state capitol.
“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.”
Iowa GOP Chairman Jeff Kaufmann noted Graber’s work for the Iowa GOP while sharing his condolences Friday.
“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.”
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig also shared his condolences to Graber’s family and community Friday, calling him a “man of integrity.”
“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 Attorney General Brenna Bird said she’s praying for Graber’s family, calling him a “kind man with a heart of gold.”
“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.”
Graber represented House District 100 and was first elected to the Iowa House in 2020.
Under Iowa law, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds will have to set a special election date to fill Graber’s seat, as the loss comes less than a month into the new legislative session.
