GOP Congressman Shares Heartbreaking Family Tragedy
The Eldest Daughter of Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin Passes Away After Battle with Cancer
In a heartbreaking announcement on Tuesday, Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin revealed that his daughter Sydney had lost her battle with an “aggressive” form of cancer. The retired Navy SEAL shared the news on social media, expressing both grief and gratitude for the time he and his family had with Sydney.
“[Sydney] died peacefully surrounded by her family. We are heartbroken that we cannot share her smile and laugh in person any longer but are so thankful that she is resting with our Lord and that we were able to spend these years with her and her family.”
Sydney is survived by her husband Chris, daughter Madelyn, sons Charlie and Roman, and her extended family.
Statement from Rep. Van Orden: pic.twitter.com/drkaUTtDvr
— Rep. Derrick Van Orden Press Office (@RepVanOrden) August 22, 2023
Many of Van Orden’s colleagues in Congress offered their prayers and condolences on Twitter:
No parent should have to experience this kind of heartbreak. I’m praying for @RepVanOrden and his family during this tragic time.
— Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) August 22, 2023
My family and the entire @HouseGOP Conference are praying for @RepVanOrden and his family during this difficult time. https://t.co/9mMBkdy9pb
— Rep. Elise Stefanik (@RepStefanik) August 22, 2023
My thoughts and prayers go out to Rep. Van Orden and his entire family. No parent should have to experience this kind of loss. https://t.co/e6te7DKO0L
— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) August 22, 2023
Godspeed. RIP. https://t.co/AYeZYRjGSd
— Chip Roy (@chiproytx) August 22, 2023
Our hearts go out to the entire Van Orden family. Please join Jacquie and I in praying for them during this incredibly difficult time. https://t.co/pOH1rBJwKP
— Tom Emmer (@GOPMajorityWhip) August 22, 2023
Sending prayers to you and your family.
— Rep. Cory Mills (@RepMillsPress) August 22, 2023
We are all praying for @RepVanOrden and his family during this tragic time. https://t.co/qBdqnsicBu
— House Republicans (@HouseGOP) August 22, 2023
Van Orden, who is in his first year in the House, holds the seat previously occupied by former congressman Ron Kind. He narrowly lost his first election for the seat in 2020 but emerged victorious in the subsequent race.
As a retired Navy SEAL, Van Orden served in various parts of the world and authored a book on manhood. He and his wife Sara have three surviving children and eight grandchildren.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Van Orden family during this difficult time.
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