Former Connecticut House Speaker Irving Stolberg, 72, has died after a long battle with leukemia.
Family members and colleagues said the longtime New Haven resident died Friday at Connecticut Hospice in Branford.
Stolberg served for 22 years in the state House of Representatives, including two terms as House speaker in 1987-88. He was also among leaders of the initiative to build the Legislative Office Building, which opened in 1988 adjacent to the State Capitol.
"Connecticut is saddened by the loss of Speaker Stolberg, a man who served during a crucial transition period when our state Legislature was redefining itself and reshaping its mission," Gov. M. Jodi Rell said in a statement issued over the weekend. "In many ways, his imprint can still be seen today on the General Assembly in both its physical offices and role in governing. I extend my deepest condolences to Speaker Stolberg's family and friends at this difficult time. I hope they will be comforted by knowing that so many people across our state are thinking of them."
Stolberg also served as president of the National Conference of State Legislatures and the Foundation for State Legislatures.
Memorial services will be scheduled in Connecticut and California.
