A western Iowa legislator has died. State Representative Greg Forristall, a farmer from Macedonia, has died of cancer. Forristall was first elected to the Iowa House in 2006. He represented House District 22, which included parts of Pottawattamie County. A date for a special election for House District 22 will be announced at a later date.

Forristall’s health declined precipitously in the past several months and he was unable to participate in many legislative activities. Fellow Republican Linda Upmeyer, the speaker of the House, said Forristall was a “dedicated public servant” and “an advocate for the arts and education.”

Foristall’s wife, Carol, is a retired music teacher. She served as his clerk in the House. Funeral arrangements are pending. Forristall, who was 67, grew up on his family farm near Macedonia. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1972 and then earned a master of arts degree in 1973 from the university.

Governor Terry Branstad said he “Was sorry to hear about Greg Forristall’s passing. Greg bravely fought cancer for months while going above and beyond to fulfill his legislative duties and serve his constituents in western Iowa.  He was an outstanding legislator and will be greatly missed.  Carol and the Forristall family are in our thoughts and prayers.”

Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds said “Greg was a passionate legislator who served as Vice Chair of the House Education Committee and also served on the House Labor Committee. For 11 years, he fought hard for children’s education, job growth and protecting Iowa’s small businesses.  Kevin and I want to extend our prayers to Carol and the Forristall family during this difficult time.”

(Radio Iowa)