Veteran Democratic Connecticut state representative Kevin Ryan died at the age of 73.

Ryan, who was also assistant deputy speaker and on the public health committee, died Sunday, the New London Democratic Town Committee announced on Facebook.

Ryan had been treated for melanoma for nearly three years, former Republican state Rep. Michael Caron told CT Insider .

One of the state’s longest-serving members of the state house, Ryan was first elected to his 139th House District in 1992. The district includes Ledyard, Montville and Norwich in eastern Connecticut.

“Kevin Ryan was among the most dedicated and enthusiastic legislators, who was devoted to his district and serving the people of Ledyard, Montville, and Norwich,” Gov. Ned Lamont said in a statement. “He loved public service and

See Full Page