Delaware legislators mourn death of State Rep. Peterman

State Rep. Peterson

State Rep. Peterson

Governor Jack Markell announced the death of Milford Representative Harold “Jack” Peterman Wednesday.

The 74-year-old Republican had battled health problems in recent years and was not running for reelection this November. 

“Jack was a fixture in the Milford community who was proud to represent his hometown in the General Assembly,” Markell said. “I know his colleagues and friends admired the courage and determination with which he battled recent health challenges.” 

The retired farmer was working as a full-time legislator. He was a board member at the Frederica Senior Center and an active member of the Milford Church of the Nazarene. He was also a past president of the Frederica Lions Club.

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Democratic State House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf called Peterman an honorable man. “Even in the face of personal tragedy and hardship, his spirit for public service never weakened,” Schwartzkopf said. “While we may have been on opposite sides of many issues in Legislative Hall, Jack Peterman remained at all times a gentleman, and we are proud to have called him our colleague.”

Delaware Republican Party chairman Charlie Copeland and Kent County GOP chair Hank McCann issued a joint statement expressing their sympathy to Peterman’s family and friends. “Jack Peterman was not only a member of our party, but he was our friend. His work on behalf of the residents of the 33rd District was an example of what it truly means to be a public servant.”

Because he was planning to retire, there will be no special election to fill his seat. There are three Republicans running in the Sept. 13 primary in the 33rd State House district. They include Charles Postles, Jr., Morgan Hudson, and Robert Scott. The winner of the Republican primary will face Democrat Karen Williams in November. 

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