Dem-NPLers mourn the loss of Legislative Giant Rep. Delmore

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 20, 2026

GRAND FORKS – On Wednesday, Former State Representative Lois Delmore of Grand Forks passed away at age 76. Delmore served for over 24 years in the North Dakota Legislature.

ND DNC Committeeman and former runningmate of Rep. Delmore, Jamie Selzler remarked, “I ran for the State House in 2006 with Lois, and got to see up close why she was so beloved as a legislator: She listened, she cared, she fought for what she believed, and she always found a way to work with others. You will not find a single legislator she served with, from either party, who wouldn’t say that Lois was one of the smartest, hardest working, and kind members that the State House has ever had.

But as good of a legislator as she was, she was an even better friend. She loved without judgement, cared without asking for anything in return, and when you were with her she made you feel like the center of the universe. North Dakota is a better state because Lois Delmore unselfishly gave 24 years of service to the place she loved, just as those of us who felt her love were made better by it.”

Assistant Senate Minority Leader Josh Boschee (D-Fargo) said, “Rep. Lois Delmore was one of our state’s best public servant having dedicated her life to education, advocacy and policy. She mentored me and so many other legislators over the years to focus on the issues impacting our communities and state as a way to build trust with our legislative colleagues. Lois’ legacy will live on through the students she taught and the policy makers she inspired.”

House Minority Leader Zac Ista (D-Grand Forks) said, “Lois was a dedicated public servant and champion for Grand Forks. I aspired to live up to her example of working across the aisle to form genuine partnerships and friendships. May she rest in peace and her family take comfort in the lasting impact she made for North Dakota.”

Senator Tim Mathern (D-Fargo) said, “My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Lois. I served with her in all of her years in the legislature. She was gregarious, a hard worker, and passionate about proper funding for schools. For all 24 years together her hair stayed pitch black and only mine changed color which we joked about!”

Former State Party Chair and Legislator Kylie Oversen said, “When I was asked to run for the legislature in Grand Forks, Lois Delmore was the first woman I met with. She was encouraging and thoughtful in answering questions and sharing her experiences. But I knew of Lois for many years before that because she was a longtime speaker at and supporter of North Dakota Girls State, when I was a participant and counselor.
For decades, across politics, education, and community service, Lois was a stalwart supporter of so many people. Especially young people and women. She encouraged and believed in others. She fought to make things better in her community and state. She was truly the epitome of a public servant.’

CONTACT:
Laura Dronen
Communications Director
[email protected]