Michigan Rep. Julie Plawecki dead at 54

LANSING, Mich. – State Rep. Julie Plawecki, (D-Dearborn Heights), died Saturday. She was 54.

She was hiking in Oregon with two of her daughters when she suffered a heart attack.

State Senator David Knezek broke the news on Facebook.

“It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of Representative Julie Plawecki,” Knezek posted. “Plawecki was an absolutely outstanding public servant, beloved by all, and a fighter for her constituents.”

Plawecki was serving her first term in the Michigan House of Representatives, representing the 11th House District which includes Dearborn Heights, Garden City, Inkster, Livonia and Westland. She served on two House committees: Energy and Natural Resources.

Before coming to the Michigan Legislature, Plawecki was a medical technologist, and a teacher of science, math and religion at elementary and secondary levels. She received her bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and her professional teaching certificate from the University of Michigan – Dearborn.

Plawecki leaves behind her husband Mark Plawecki and their three daughters.

Statements made

House Speaker Kevin Cotter, (R-Mt. Pleasant), released the following statement:

"I am truly sorry to hear the news about Rep. Plawecki. She was a dedicated public servant who had the respect and admiration of all of us in the Michigan House of Representatives. Julie Spent her career serving her community, both as a longtime teacher and as a state representative, and those who knew her have lost a great neighbor and friend. She will be missed dearly."

State Rep. Peter J. Lucido, (R-Shelby Twp.), posted the following to Facebook:

Dearborn Heights Mayor Dan Paletko released the following statement:

"I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of good friend and State Representative Julie Plawecki last night. Julie was a never-tiring supporter of our community, a dedicated and respected member of the Michigan House of Representatives, and most of all, a loving wife, mother and trusted friend. We will miss her deeply. On behalf of Dearborn Heights' residents, officials and employees, I offer my sincere condolences to the Plawecki family in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."

State Senator David Knezek broke the news on Facebook:

Gov. Rick Snyder issued the following statement:

"Representative Plawecki's passing is a shock to us all and Michigan has lost a fine and dedicated public servant. The outpouring of support and grief from both sides of the aisle in both chambers of the Legislature are a testament to how much Julie cared about serving her constituents and the state of Michigan well and with distinction. Sue and I are keeping her husband, her children, and her entire family in our thoughts and prayers."

Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans released the following statement:

"I am saddened to learn of Dearborn State Rep. Julie Plawecki's passing. Her career as a teacher and her time in the legislature are a testament to her commitment to our community. My thoughts and prayers are with her husband Mark and her three daughters."