> At a Glance
> – Rep. Doug LaMalfa passed away at 65 in early January 2026
> – He is survived by wife Jill and their four children
> – LaMalfa became a grandfather shortly before his death
> – Why it matters: The sudden loss of a sitting congressman leaves a void for constituents and rural America advocacy
Rep. Doug LaMalfa, the California Republican known for his quiet family life and strong advocacy for rural America, has died at 65. His death was confirmed by President Donald Trump and mourned by colleagues who praised his dedication as both a public servant and family man.
A Private but Supportive Family
LaMalfa and his wife Jill raised their four children on the family rice farm in Richvale, California. Despite keeping largely out of the public eye, the family frequently stood by his side during key political milestones.
- 2013 swearing-in: Daughters joined him on the House floor, where LaMalfa said, “you really feel a sense of history”
- 2015 ceremony: Multiple family members appeared for his reenactment swearing-in with Speaker Mike Johnson
- 2020 campaign: Jill accompanied him to fundraising events as he sought re-election
Life Beyond Politics
While his children generally avoided media attention, son Kyle made a public appearance with his father at the 2019 SEMA Show. The congressman recently celebrated becoming a grandfather, a detail confirmed by Rep. Ken Calvert in his tribute statement.
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer shared his grief:
> “Doug was a loving father and husband, and staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America. Our prayers are with Doug’s wife, Jill, and their children.”
Rep. Ken Calvert added:
> “Doug was a devoted husband, a dedicated father to four beautiful children, and a newfound grandfather.”
Key Takeaways
- Doug LaMalfa died at 65, one day before the January 6, 2026 announcement
- He and wife Jill shared four children, all raised on their California rice farm
- Though private, the family supported his political career at key events
- LaMalfa had recently become a grandfather before his sudden passing
- Colleagues remember him as both a dedicated family man and fierce rural advocate
