Former Oklahoma lawmaker, civil rights attorney Ryan Kiesel dies at 45
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Former Oklahoma legislator and civil rights attorney Ryan Kiesel died at age 45 on Friday.
NonDoc reported that Kiesel's death comes after a long battle with cancer.
He was elected to House District 28 in 2004 up until 2010. He won re-election twice but did not refile in 2010.
In 2011, Kiesel became the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Oklahoma and would serve until 2020.
After his position as executive director at ALCU, he began lobbying practice in the medical marijuana sector.
Kiesel, a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, received his bachelor's degree in political science. He later earned his Juris Doctor degree at the University of Oklahoma College of Law.
Oklahoma lawmakers took to social media platform 'X' on Friday to remember Kiesel.
Ryan Kiesel was a state rep when I signed up to intern at the Capitol during college. I didn’t know who he was when I was assigned to his office, but working for him changed my life & earned a lifelong friend.
He’s gone far too soon & I, for one, am better for having known him.
State Rep. Forrest Bennett
Ryan Kiesel was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. Honest, principled and full of goodness. I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing. This is a massive loss for all who knew him. My thoughts are with his family, sending them all the love tonight.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols
I’ve been trying to cobble my words together all night after learning about losing my dear friend Ryan Kiesel. From day one, he deeply believed in me. His support has always been unwavering. In my office, he is lovingly known as “Brother Kiesel” and always will be.
In the beginning of my public service career he provided mentorship I needed at a time when so many tried to convince me to be who I wasn’t for political expediency. He taught me how to stand up for my values & trust my constituents to keep sending me back to the State House.
He showed me tough love at times, but always gentle care because he knew what it takes to fight the good fight in our state. He had done it way before it was publicly appreciated like it is now. He was a true hero for so many of us—during & after serving in the #okleg.
He treated me like a leader, and nothing less. He reminded me daily that I earned my spot in Oklahoma politics. That type of support doesn’t come easy or often when you’re a young woman leader in this work. He lived his values & I’m better for it—we all are.
He was my colleague, confidant, friend, brother. He will continue to be, even if not here on this Earth. He will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, & his belief that we can change the world if we’re brave enough to do it. We’ll take it from here, RK. Rest well.
Rep. Cyndi Munson (D-OKC)