Hugh McKean, a well-known politician, died on October 30 at the age of 55. Colorado House Republicans announced the news Sunday with the following statement:

“It is with deep regret that we announce the unexpected passing of House Minority Leader Hugh McKean.” Hugh was committed to promoting the best of Colorado and will be sorely missed. Funeral arrangements will be arranged and details will be released after they are completed.

The Death of Hugh McKean

Hugh McKean died of an acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, according to the Larimer County Coroner’s Office. After forensic examination, it was determined that the cause of death was natural. According to Hugh’s deputy chief of staff, Roger Hudson, McKean moaned with discomfort on the left side of his body, which could have been caused by the injury he sustained while working at his home.

Hugh’s discomfort worsened Sunday morning, according to Hudson and Rep. Colin Larson, when he called his companion Amy Parks to his residence. When Parks arrived at McKean’s house, she saw an ambulance outside. More information on the subject is still being sought. Larson expressed her sadness at McKean’s passing and said he was a good friend and he will be missed. He continued,

“I still can’t believe he’s gone.” And my heart aches for Amy, his son and daughter, and Amy’s children. He was a great father who always talked about his children. I hope they are aware of this.”

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of House Minority Leader Hugh McKean. Hugh was fiercely passionate about serving the great state of Colorado and will be sorely missed. Funeral services are being scheduled and details will be made public once completed. pic.twitter.com/Yw7ARMTnJv

— Colorado House Republicans (@COHouseGOP) October 30, 2022

Colorado Democratic State Senator Kerry Donovan also expressed her grief, saying:

“That’s terrible news about @hmckean. All those closest to him are on my mind. We always had something to laugh about, no matter the subject or the differences of opinion. That will be missed.”

All about Hugh McKean

Born on October 27, 1967, McKean was elected to represent Colorado House District 51 in November 2016. Along with other measures, he supported proposals to improve transportation in Northern Colorado and help the county government recover from natural disasters, including making changes to a statute governing the County Sheriff’s training requirements.

McKean began his tenure in Loveland after being elected to the Loveland City Council in 2009. He demanded responsibility, fought tirelessly for his people, and worked on legislation and action that would benefit Northern Colorado citizens and businesses. Colorado GOP Chair Kristi Burton Brown praised him as someone who works to improve the lives of all Colorado families. In a tweet she said:

“Every time I saw or spoke to him, he had an encouraging word to say and was eager to educate people.” Hugh McKean’s grin and good outlook on life will come to mind when I think of him.”

Hugh is survived by his girlfriend Amy, as well as his children Aiden and Hanna McKean.