BOSTON — Massachusetts Senator Ken Donnelly, who represents the Fourth Middlesex district, has died, according to posts.
Boston Mayor Marty Walsh tweeted a message mourning the loss of the Senator who was hospitalized late last summer.
The 66-year-old Arlington native had been battling a brain tumor for months when he was hospitalized for surgery in August of 2016.
"I have known Sen. Donnelly for over 20 years as a devoted public servant who spent decades as an elected official and firefighter, always fighting for the greater good while putting his family first," Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement sent to FOX25. "I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing and will keep his family and loved ones in my thoughts during this difficult time."
A retired Lexington firefighter, Donnelly has served in the Senate since 2009 and held the position of majority whip.
"It’s a sad day for firefighters not just in Massachusetts, but across the country. Ken’s legacy in the fire service is of a fighter," Professional Firefighters of MA President Rich McKinnon said in a statement. "He was a fighter for our health and safety, our benefits and making sure our retirees and families were always taken care of."
Saddened to hear of the loss of Senator Donnelly, a true champion for working families & advocate for equality. He will be missed by many.
— Mayor Marty Walsh (@marty_walsh) April 3, 2017
A message was posted to Donnelly's Facebook page mourning the Senator Sunday evening.
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