LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in honor of former state legislator Don Koivisto.

Koivisto passed away on October 7, 2025, from complications of Parkinson’s disease at 76 years old.

He began his career in public service in 1980 when he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, serving the 110th District.

As a representative, Koivisto chaired the House Agriculture Committee and played a key role in crafting Michigan’s Right to Farm Act.

In 1986, he was elected to the Michigan Senate, where he represented the 38th District until 2002. His service continued in 2007 when he was appointed Director of the Michigan Department of Agricultu

See Full Page