Former Delaware Representative John Kowalko Jr. has died. He was 80.

Kowalko, one of the most progressive voices in Delaware’s General Assembly, represented the Newark-area from 2006 to 2022, when he decided to not seek re-election.

Prior to his time in the State House, the Philadelphia-native served in the U.S. Marines for 24 years.

He was also a machinist for over 30 years, working at the Delaware City Refinery from 1978 to 2004.

Kowalko is married to Constance Merlet, a former school board member for the Christina School District and director of the nonprofit Willa Road Day Care.

They have lived in Delaware since 1983 and have two children - Johanna and John III - and grandchildren.

There was no immediate word on funeral services.

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