A 46-year-old top aide to House Republican Leader John Boehner died suddenly, reportedly from a heart attack, the minority leader announced Sunday.
“It is with profound sadness and shock that I announce the passing of Paula Nowakowski, my longtime chief of staff, trusted aide, and friend, who died suddenly last night. Words cannot adequately express the sorrow and disbelief I and every member of our team are grappling with today in the wake of this stunning news,” Boehner said in a statement on his House leadership Web site.
“We will remember Paula as she would want to be remembered — as a tireless worker, faithful friend, rabid Detroit sports fan, whip-smart strategist, warrior for freedom, and devoted Catholic who counted President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II among her greatest heroes. She will never be replaced, or forgotten,” Boehner continued.
Only 46. What a shocker.