A former longtime Rochester state legislator has died.Nancy Brataas had been in hospice care after battling emphysema and COPD for an extended period. She died yesterday at the age of 86. The Republican was elected to the state Senate in 1975 and served 17 years, during which she championed efforts to open a four year college in Rochester. She also served as chair of the Minnesota Republican Party during the 1960’s.

No word yet on funeral plans.

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