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Democratic State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were remembered at their funeral Mass on June 28 for living meaningful lives. The service was held at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, with Father Daniel Griffith officiating.
Father Griffith highlighted the couple's dedication to service and community during his homily. "They lived lives in service of others, in community with those they loved, their family and their friends," he stated.
The couple's children, Colin and Sophie, were offered condolences by Father Griffith: "Our hearts go out to you today and we will continue to be praying for you."
The funeral drew over 1,000 attendees, including notable figures such as former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Governor Tim Walz served as a pallbearer and delivered a eulogy.
The Hortmans were fatally shot in their Brooklyn Park home on June 14. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also attacked but survived. Authorities arrested Vance Boelter on June 15; he faces charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder.
Melissa Hortman had served in the Minnesota House of Representatives since 2005. On June 27, she became the first woman to lie in state at the Minnesota Capitol rotunda.
During the Mass, Father Griffith acknowledged societal issues: "Minnesota has 'been the ground zero place' for racial injustice...and now we are the ground zero place for political violence." He emphasized that Minnesota can become a place for restoration if efforts are made collectively.
Father Griffith also spoke about Gilbert, the couple’s golden retriever involved in training service dogs with Helping Paws. Tragically wounded during the attack, Gilbert was later euthanized.
Colin Hortman concluded the Mass with a prayer alongside his fiancée: "Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love."
