Connecticut Extends its Condolences to Former Gov. Jodi Rell on the Passing of Her Husband

The husband of former Gov. Jodi Rell died Saturday in Florida after a long battle with cancer.

Lou Rell was a retired Navy and commercial airline pilot. While he took a largely behind-the-scenes role during his wife's years in office, he was very supportive of her life in politics and often escorted her to public events, including former Gov. Rell's swearing in.

Jodi Rell was the 87th governor of Connecticut from 2004 to 2011. She and her husband retired back to their hometown of Brookfield, where Lou also served as a volunteer firefighter and police commissioner, according to NBC Connecticut.

She and her Lou have been married since 1967. They have two children together, Michael and Meredith, and four grandchildren.

"I was very fortunate to have known Lou Rell for many years. He was a man of integrity, humor, and commitment, and his passing is a tremendous loss," said Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman in a statement. "Lou was devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and an important source of support to his family and friends. My deepest sympathy goes out to Governor Rell and her family—we hold them in our thoughts during this difficult time."

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy also released a statement. "Cathy and I send our deepest condolences to Governor Rell and her family on the passing of Lou Rell...their loss is felt by countless people throughout our state," Malloy said. "Governor Rell, her family, and the Brookfield community will remain in our thoughts and prayers in the coming days."

Last night, Connecticut Democratic Party Chairwoman Nancy DiNardo also expressed her condolences to Rell in a statement. "Connecticut Democrats join Governor Rell and her family in mourning a great man who served his state and his country," DiNardo said.

Rell overcame her own battle with breast cancer, having surgery in December 2004.