Rhode Island State Senator Frank Lombardo III passes away at age 65

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island State Senator Frank Lombardo III has passed away at age 65 after battling bladder cancer.

Lombardo, a Democrat representing Johnston, was first elected to the senate in 2010.

He worked toward legislation to promote accountability and transparency, help small businesses, tax credit programs, electric vehicle charging stations and non-opioid pain treatment in chiropractic and osteopathic medicine.

Lombardo is survived by his wife Patricia and children Frank and Victoria.

He is a graduate of Smithfield High School and attended Rhode Island College.

“Frank was one of the kindest and most generous people I have ever had the good fortune to know,” said President of the Senate Dominick J. Ruggerio.

“He was a passionate and effective representative of his constituents, and he embodied the spirit of collegiality and service to which every member of the Senate aspires.”

“Frank was not only a well-respected colleague but a dear friend. He never shied from giving tough feedback or challenging your thinking,” said Senate Majority Leader Ryan W. Pearson.

“That same spirit also extended to his adventurous hobbies where he challenged and beat me down every ski mountain he could complete with a lot of commentary about it.”