State Representative Les Mason Passes Away Monday Evening in Wichita After Suffering Brain Aneurysm
By Lucky Kidd
McPHERSON COUNTY, Kan. — State Representative Les Mason of McPherson passed away Monday evening at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, where he was taken after suffering a brain aneurysm Friday.
In a message to House members last night, Speaker Dan Hawkins said Representative Mason touched many lives during his time in the House, and he was a dear friend to many.
Representative Stephen Owens of Hesston said in a social media post this morning, “It was truly an honor to be in his life during his earthly existence.” Owens also called Mason a friend, mentor, and shining example of what being a great representative is, asking God to be with his wife Vicki and their family during their time of mourning.
Senator Rick Wilborn of McPherson, who had earlier decided not to seek re-election, told the Kansas Reflector as he filed Monday for Mason’s District 73 position he and Mason had served together in the legislature, both serving McPherson County and with a lot of common interests.
“I felt compelled, on behalf of Les. I cannot fill his shoes, but I can sure run for a seat,” Wilborn said in a statement.
During this morning’s McPherson City Commission meeting Mayor Tom Brown said he spent time Sunday afternoon with the Mason Family, including his wife Victoria and daughter Angela. “Even though he was not responsive, I carried on a conversation with him, and prayed for him and his family,” Brown said, adding he wanted to represent the city and also noting a long connection with the Mason family, including Les’ Mother. Mayor Brown added the city will provide any services the family might wish for his services, including providing an honor guard if requested.
In a statement this morning Governor Laura Kelly said Mason was a dedicated public servant who for the past decade has represented his constituents and the McPherson Community with honor. The Governor has also ordered flags at state buildings, grounds and facilities to be flown at half-staff until the date of his internment. Funeral arrangements for Representative Mason are pending and will be passed along once available.
