Sequim’s Paul Conner died Jan. 27, survived by his legacy of 35 years in the Washington state Legislature, a 59-year marriage, five children, 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

His family indicated the cause of death was related to complications from pneumonia.

Conner, a Democrat, was both a state senator and state representative. He is credited with many improvements to the transportation infrastructure on the Olympic Peninsula, such as the U.S. Highway 101 corridor, the removal of tolls on the Hood Canal bridge and authorizing year-round ferry service between Port Townsend and Keystone.

While many of Connor’s most memorable feats for the 24th District came from Olympia, he also enjoyed an active lifestyle in Sequim and Port Angeles, including being the past president of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, member of Toastmasters International, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Elks Lodge.

Conner was born in Port Angeles and orphaned. He was brought up by several families in the Port Angeles area, the impetus to his dedication to public service. He is a 1943 Port Angeles High School graduate and served in the Merchant Marines in World War II.

Following his service, Conner attended Port Angeles Business College, Western Washington College, University of Washington and Peninsula College. He worked for the Clallam County Public Utility District and as a longshoreman.

A public memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 9, at King’s Way Foursquare Church, 1023 Kitchen-Dick Road, Sequim. For the full obituary see page A-13.