July 22, 2021 11:10 a.m.

State Representative Gary Leif died early Thursday.

A release from the Douglas County Board of Commissioners said they would like to extend their sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, and pay tribute to the time he served Douglas County and his district.

Commissioner Chris Boice said, “Gary showed up his first day as County Commissioner ready to hit the ground running. His enthusiasm about serving this county was infectious, and he worked hard during his time as a County Commissioner”.

Representative Leif was raised in Douglas County, and owned a business here for over 40 years. He was elected in the May 2016 Primary as a Douglas County Commissioner in Position 1. Leif served from January of 2017 to May of 2018. He vacated his position early to accept an appointment as the House District 2 Representative when Dallas Heard vacated that position so he could be appointed to the Oregon Senate. Leif was elected for a full term in November of 2018 and re-elected in November of 2020.

Commissioner Tim Freeman said, “I was honored to work alongside Gary as a County Commissioner, and am proud of him for stepping up to the State level during a very demanding and difficult time. His dedication and willingness to serve the citizens of Douglas County and his District will forever be remembered”.

Commissioner Tom Kress said, “When I filed and then won my bid for Douglas County Commissioner Position 1, Gary graciously reached out and offered his assistance to me. Until recently, we served together on the Board of Directors for UCAN. He truly loved Douglas County and dedicated his life to helping and serving others. This is a tremendous loss for our County”.

Friends of Leif told News Radio 1240 KQEN that his family asks for privacy during this time. Information regarding a memorial service is not yet available.