Former University of Oregon president Dave Frohnmayer died Monday in Eugene. The 74-year old was also former State Attorney General. Lawmakers in Salem held a moment of silence Tuesday morning. Democratic Representative Phil Barnhart of Eugene spoke on the house floor.
Phil Barnhart: "I think it's really important for us to recognize the key importance that one man can have, on an institution, whether it's the state of Oregon or the University of Oregon. And how important he was in the modern era in our state. I will personally say that I miss him very much. I'm thankful for his life, for the work that he did."
Dave Frohnmayer was appointed as U of O president in 1994. He served until 2009. He grew up in Medford, served in the Oregon House and was state Attorney General in 1981 to 1991. Dave Frohnmayer reportedly died in his sleep Monday night.
Frohnmayer Family Statement
March 10, 2015
Dave Frohnmayer passed away quietly in his sleep last night. He was 74. Dave had bravely dealt with his quiet battle against prostate cancer for 5 1/2 years. We are devastated by his passing but we are grateful that his passing was peaceful.
Much of Dave’s life was devoted to fighting devastating health crises that enveloped his family. These battles were complicated by the intense public attention that inevitably accompanied his lifelong commitment to public service. He was adamant that his own health issues would remain private. Except for the immediate family and Dave’s closest friends, he was able to accomplish this and continue a full public schedule to the end.
The family will hold a celebration of Dave’s remarkable life at a time to be announced.
Dave is survived by his wife Lynn, his sons Mark and Jonathan, his daughter Amy, his sister Mira and brother John. His daughters Kirsten and Katie and his brother Phil predeceased him.
