Former Laurel State Senator Bob Venables, a Democrat who represented his district from 1989 to 2015, has passed away at the age of 88.
Venables was well known for his fight for the environment, while representing the Laurel area. He was on several committees, including the chair of the powerful Bond committee.
Shortly after his passing, several current lawmakers sent out statements – including State Senate President Dave Sokola who said he was “deeply sad” when he heard the news. Sokola added that it was a pleasure to work with Venables on the bond bill for several years and he was deeply committed to prudent investments across the state, yet always fought for his beloved Sussex County to get its share.
State Representative Paul Baumbach issued a statement saying “While I disagreed with his stances on many social issues, Laurel was well-represented with over twenty years of his dedicated service in the state senate. My thoughts are with his family during this time.”
Venables served the Laurel district until he was voted out of office by current Republican State Senator Bryant Richardson. No funeral arrangements have been announced at this time.
