Husband of state representative dies after battling COVID-19

BOONE COUNTY, Mo. (KMIZ)

State Rep. Sara Walsh (R-Ashland) said in a tweet Thursday morning that her husband, Steve Walsh, had died from COVID-19 complications.

A spokesman said Steve Walsh was in the hospital with COVID-19 on Aug. 6 after both he and Sara Walsh tested positive. At the time, Sara Walsh had said her husband was "gradually progressing in the right direction" and requested prayers.

Sara Walsh told KRCG at the time that she and her husband had not been vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Steve Walsh was the press secretary for U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler (R-Harrisonville).

“I am saddened at the loss of Steve Walsh, who served my office and Missouri’s Fourth District admirably for the past decade," Hartzler said in a statement. "Since day one, Steve has been a key member of my team, serving previously as Press Secretary before his current role as Field Representative."

Several Missouri lawmakers, including Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe, State Sen. Caleb Rowden (R-Columbia) and former chair of the Missouri Democratic Party, Roy Temple, have tweeted their condolences as well.

"Steve was a great guy — always quick to bring humor and optimism to any situation. He had a heart for people and for this state.", Rowden tweeted.

Sara Walsh said funeral arrangements are pending at this time.