LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – In honor of former state Representative Steve Adamini, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex lowered to half-staff.
The lowering coincided with memorial services held Friday at Northern Michigan University in Marquette.
Whitmer remembered Adamini as a thoughtful lawmaker and longtime friend.
“Representative Steve Adamini was a great friend, insightful and thoughtful legislator, and downright fun to be around,” Whitmer said in a statement. “He dedicated much of his life to the underdog and was one of my dear friends from my time in the legislature.”
Adamini died April 29 at the age of 81.
Born in Marquette in 1945, Adamini graduated from Negaunee High School before earning both his bachelor’s degree in political science and law degree from the University of Michigan.
He practiced law in Marquette County for decades and became a senior partner at Kendricks, Bordeau, Adamini, Chilman and Greenlee, P.C., where he was known for representing veterans and underserved clients.
Adamini served three terms in the Michigan House of Representatives, representing the 109th District from 2001 through 2006. During his time in Lansing, he served on committees including Judiciary, Health Policy and Transportation.
Outside the legislature, Adamini held numerous public service roles across the Upper Peninsula and Michigan, including service on the Michigan Transportation Commission, the Northern Michigan University Board of Trustees, the Marquette County Airport Board and the Marquette County Board of Commissioners. He also served as city and county attorney in Marquette and chaired the Marquette County Democratic Party.
According to his obituary, Adamini was also active in Alcoholics Anonymous support efforts in Marquette County and taught in the paralegal program at Northern Michigan University.
Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at NMU’s Northern Center, with burial following at Park Cemetery in Marquette.
