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 to honor and remember former state legislator Don Koivisto.

"Don Koivisto was a thoughtful public servant and leader,” said Governor Whitmer. “As a state legislator, and later Agriculture Director, his commitment to supporting Michigan’s rural communities has left a long-lasting legacy across the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan. Senator Koivisto was also a loving husband, dad, and grandfather. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.”

Born in Bessemer, Don Koivisto went on to graduate from Central Michigan University and later became a teacher. An avid sports fan, he coached football and basketball. He also worked as a county juvenile officer.

Koivisto began his career in public service in 1980 when he was elected to the Michigan State House of Representatives to serve the 110th district. During his time as a state Representative, Koivisto chaired the Agriculture Committee and helped write the state's right-to-farm act. In 1986, he was elected to the state Senate where he represented the 38th district until 2002. However, he continued his career in state politics in 2007 when he was appointed as Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture.

Former state Senator Koivisto is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pamela, their four children, and four grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Bonnie Koivisto.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of former state legislator Don Koivisto by lowering flags to half-staff. To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.

Flags should remain lowered for additional expected flag honors.