BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Former longtime Mandan Republican state Rep. Rae Ann Kelsch has died.Alex Kelsch says his mother died early Tuesday morning at a New Orleans hospital from a bacterial infection caused by eating raw oysters at a restaurant there. She was 58.Kelsch was first elected to the North Dakota House in 1990 and served 22 years, including as the chairwoman of the Education Committee.She was defeated in the 2012 primary, after it came to light she didn’t file state income tax returns for seven years.Kelsch’s husband, Thomas, a lawyer, said at the time that he was to blame for the tax problems. The couple said the tax bill was eventually paid.

Kelsch served as a lobbyist after her tenure as a lawmaker.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

 

(CSi)   Statement from Gary Selvy, NFIB executive director of state government relations, on the passing of NFIB North Dakota State Director Rae Ann Kelsch:

“The entire NFIB family across the nation has lost a much beloved and respected colleague with Rae Ann’s passing, and North Dakota has lost a tireless and effective advocate for small business. We were blessed to have had her with us after her many years of stellar service as a state representative. It was only a month ago when her good humor and great knowledge enlightened a conference she was at in Nashville. We will mourn our loss for a long time.”

Senator John Hoeven Tuesday issued the following statement after the passing of former state Representative Rae Ann Kelsch, who served in the North Dakota House of Representatives from 1991 to 2012.

 

“Mikey and I are truly saddened to hear of Rae Ann’s passing. She was not only a friend and colleague, but a true leader on education issues in the state of North Dakota. As governor, I worked with Rae Ann as she led education efforts in the North Dakota House of Representatives and served as a champion for North Dakota’s teachers, students and schools. She will be deeply missed. Mikey and I pray for Rae Ann and her family, and send our sincerest condolences to them.”