Steve Kolotylo, the husband of Maree Edwards, dead at 65

Member for Bendigo West and speaker of the Legislative Assembly Maree Edwards has shared the sad news that her husband Steve Kolotylo has died.

Maree Edwards with her husband Steve Kolotylo, who died on Tuesday.

Labor MP Maree Edwards has mourned the loss of her husband in a touching tribute following his death on Tuesday.

Ms Edwards, the speaker of the Legislative Assembly, said Steve Kolotylo, 65, died surrounded by family.

Ms Edwards posted a touching tribute to her husband. Picture: Eugene Hyland

She will take a period of leave to mourn the loss of Mr Kolotylo who she married in 2012.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news that my husband, Steve Kolotylo, has passed away peacefully at Bendigo hospice today surrounded by family,” she said.

“Over the years Steve’s health has steadily declined, which has been a difficult journey for him and our family.

“I am grateful and thankful for the life we shared over the last 22 years.

“There are many thoughts and feelings to process as I, his two sons and our large, blended family grieve the loss of Steve.”

Ms Edwards said she would pass her speaker duties to deputy Matt Fregon, while electorate office staff at her Bendigo West office would continue to work.

“Thank you for your understanding and compassion by respecting mine and our family’s need for privacy and space at this time,” she said.

“My family and I sincerely want to thank the many nurses, doctors, surgeons, allied health and medical teams who have cared for Steve.

“We especially thank the outstanding staff at our Bendigo Health Emergency Department, ICU and the beautiful, caring staff at the hospice.”

Originally published as Steve Kolotylo, the husband of Maree Edwards, dead at 65