Today, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) issued the below statement on the passing of former Third District Congressman Don Bonker:

“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Third District Congressman Don Bonker. 

Don was a champion for Southwest Washington led by his faith and lifelong commitment to serving our communities. His work to preserve the woods and our way of life will continue to be felt by Southwest Washington for generations to come.

I was honored to call him a friend and a mentor. Don was always there to answer my questions, share a word of advice, or even lend my husband a suit to wear to my swearing-in ceremony in D.C. I’m grateful I was able to share some final words with him on Monday night. I will miss him dearly, and I’m keeping his wife, Carolyn, and his children, Dawn and Jonathan, in my thoughts.”