Kate Ebli, former Monroe County state legislator, dies

1/3/2011

Kate Ebli, a former state representative from Monroe County, died Sunday night of cancer. She was 52. Ms. Ebli (D., Monroe), lost her re-election bid in the 56th House District to Republican Dale Zorn Nov. 2.

Ms. Ebli was diagnosed and treated with cancer in 2004 after a routine mammogram. She was battling a recurrence of her illness.

Her district included Luna Pier; Ida, LaSalle, Frenchtown, Monroe, and Raisinville townships, the city of Monroe, and the northeastern section of the county.

Ms. Ebli's husband, Nick Ebli, issued a statement Monday saying his wife fought “fiercely and courageously” over the past year and that his family appreciates the outpouring of support and admiration for Ms. Ebli.

“Kate retired from Comcast to serve Michigan and make our state a better place for all of us, and she literally gave her life for public service,” Mr. Ebli said of his wife, who was a retired vice president of Comcast. “Kate's integrity was paramount and her love for her family knew no bounds.”

Her colleague, former State Rep. Kathy Angerer (D., Dundee), said Ms. Ebli was a passionate advocate for her community.

“Her experiences as an executive, a mother, a wife, and someone who fought cancer fueled her passion to help others and make a difference in our state,” Ms. Angerer said.

U.S. Rep. John Dingell (D., Dearborn), said Ms. Ebli was “effective, smart, tenacious and truly dedicated to the public good.” He said she fought for affordable health care, public safety, and education.

Ms. Ebli is survived by her husband and daughter Victoria.