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Dear neighbors,

On the morning of June 14, we woke to a tragedy that is still hard to comprehend. Melissa and Mark Hortman were killed in their home in an act of political violence that also took the life of their golden retriever, Gilbert. That same morning, Senator John Hoffman, his wife Yvette, and their daughter Hope were also attacked in their home by the same suspect. We are shaken, heartbroken, and grieving alongside their loved ones and our entire legislative family.

Melissa served in the Minnesota House for over two decades, including six consequential years as Speaker. She was a brilliant strategist, a determined advocate, and a deeply compassionate leader. Melissa never sought headlines, TV cameras, or attention for herself. Instead, she focused on what needed to get done and delivering results for Minnesotans.

*Members of the public wishing to pay their respects are invited to the State Capitol rotunda this Friday, June 27 between noon and 5 p.m. when Melissa and Mark Hortman, along with Gilbert, will lie in state.* Melissa will be the first woman and one of fewer than 20 Minnesotans to lie in state in the Capitol.

Melissa and Mark Hortman Funeral




*On Saturday, June 28 at 10:30 a.m., a private funeral will take place. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety will livestream the services on its* *YouTube channel* [ [link removed] ]*.*

The pain is far-reaching. Everyone who knew Melissa and Mark is hurting, but this tragedy is also a loss for everyone who believes in the value of public service and the power of our democracy. I’ve found comfort in the words of Melissa and Mark’s children: Sophie and Colin. While experiencing unthinkable grief, they offered the following suggestions to all of us on how to best honor the memory of their parents:


* Plant a tree.
* Visit a local park and make use of their amenities, especially a bike trail.
* Pet a dog. A golden retriever is ideal, but any will do.
* Tell your loved ones a cheesy dad joke and laugh about it. 
* Bake something — bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa, and share it with someone.
* Try a new hobby and enjoy learning something.
* Stand up for what you believe in, especially if that thing is justice and peace.

As we remember Mark and Melissa, we also keep John, Yvette, and Hope Hoffman close in our thoughts, too, and offer wishes for a complete recovery.

Let’s all commit to living up to Melissa’s legacy by relying on kindness, care, love for one another, and love for Minnesota.

Sincerely,

John








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