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Serving Northern St. Louis County, Minnesota

David Dill

Longtime legislator left a remarkable legacy in the North Country

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David Dill created a legacy as one of northern Minnesota’s staunchest supporters. His death after a courageous battle against cancer leaves a big gap that will be a challenge to fill.

Although a member of the DFL Party, Dill made no secret of his conservative views. He sometimes broke ranks with his own party to side with Republicans on social and environmental issues, but always followed his own moral compass. Even so, his kinship with Republicans allowed Dill to be a truly bipartisan politician who could reach across the aisle and party lines to pursue what he believed was best for his constituents.

An avid sportsman, Dill championed outdoor recreation issues by authoring and supporting numerous bills affecting anglers, hunters and snowmobilers. He was the go-to guy on those issues.

But Dill was also a strong advocate for public education and sought to bring more opportunities to a jobs-starved northern Minnesota.

As a legislator, Dill did his research. His deep knowledge of the issues and his business acumen earned him the respect of his colleagues. “When he spoke, people listened because they knew he said what he really believed,” said House DFL leader Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis.

Friends and colleagues recall Dill’s laser-like focus on the issues important to his district, his genuine concern for others and his joy in life. He was a great storyteller and could entertain folks with his humorous tales, but he was just as effective in marshalling support for legislation, articulating the need for bills with a common-sense approach.

Often, Dill’s contributions occurred behind the scenes. He didn’t rely on bluster to make his point, but quietly garnered support from his colleagues on the issues most dear to his heart.

Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk alluded to those qualities when he said that the people in his district might not realize the enormity of the loss of Dill as a voice for northern Minnesota. “Whether Republicans or Democrats were in charge, David always found a way to get things done for people in his district,” said Bakk.

As Orr’s city administrator, Dill proved his mettle by helping restore Orr’s business district after a fire swept through the heart of the city’s downtown. Former Orr Mayor Dave Glowaski and current Mayor Joel Astleford both credit Dill for the numerous contributions he made for the city’s welfare.

Dill’s accomplishments would be remarkable by themselves, but that he did so much while battling a myriad of health issues makes his achievements even more impressive. Colleagues said Dill rarely complained about his ailments, and his energy never seemed to flag.

The respect of his colleagues was apparent as many on both sides of the aisle took to the Internet to express their appreciation and admiration of Dill. Gov. Mark Dayton also issued a statement expressing his sorrow at the loss of such a gifted legislator, calling Dill “deeply committed to Minnesota.”

But Ruth Carlson, who served as Dill’s campaign manager, may have summed it up best.

“Our entire area has lost a very good friend,” she said. “Every fisherman, logger, hunter and miner has lost a good friend.”

David Dill will certainly be missed.