Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
Search is currently unavailable. Please try again later.
The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
September 17, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2025
Contact: press@michigan.gov
Governor Whitmer Issues Statement on Passing of Former Michigan Lawmaker Bruce Patterson
LANSING, Mich.—Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement on the passing for former Michigan lawmaker, Bruce Patterson.
“Bruce was a good friend, tough foe, and great fun. Whether he was wearing the iconic red Stormy Kromer hat while speaking at my inauguration or debating legislation on the Senate floor, Bruce always put Michigan first. He never wavered in his commitment to making Wayne County and our entire state the best place to live, raise a family, or build a business. At a time when things feel so heavy in our politics, the world could learn from Bruce about how to see humanity in each other, regardless of which side of the aisle we stand on. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and those who worked with and served alongside him. He will be dearly missed.”
###
Author: