Rep. Don. Young dies at 88

{O/C} In Alaska, the longest-serving Republican in the history of the U.S. House of Representatives, Republican Donald Young, has passed away at the age of 88.

{RVO}

His office announced Young's death in a statement last night. His cause of death was not provided. But it was reported he became unconscious on a flight from Los Angeles to Seattle and couldn't be resuscitated.

His beloved wife, Anne, was by his side as he passed away.

Growing up in California, Young earned a bachelor's degree in teaching at California State University. And according to his own biography, he also served in the U.S. Army.

Young headed to Alaska in 1959, when Alaska became a U.S. state.

As Alaska's only House member, he's best known for his brusque style. In his later years in office, his off-colour remarks and gaffes sometimes overshadowed his work.

And he also had a great sense of humour and camaraderie with colleagues from both sides of the aisle.

He is survived by his wife and two children.