Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin (D-Middlesex) issued the following statement Saturday on the passing of Republican Assemblyman Ronald Dancer from the 13th legislative district:
“I am saddened to learn of the loss of a true gentleman in New Jersey politics. In his two decades of public service in the Assembly, Ron Dancer was always someone who strived to work across the aisle.
“A veteran himself, he leaves behind a legacy of advocacy on behalf of our military men and women. He was also a champion for New Jersey’s agricultural and horse racing communities, and contributed greatly to innovative expansions of our state’s tourism – most recently being the sponsor of legislation that will widen economic opportunity for our wineries and farms.
“His absence will certainly be felt by all of us in the Assembly and by the residents of Ocean County he faithfully served. We extend our most heartfelt prayers to all family and friends mourning him.”