Robert Gannett, who was one of the statesman of the Vermont Senate during his two decades in office, has died at 94.
Gannett was a lawyer in Brattleboro and was first elected to the Legislature in 1952 as a Republican. He served in the House for three terms, including a term as chairman of the Appropriations Committee.
Almost 20 years later, Gannett was elected to the Senate and served there until his retirement in 1992. He served in many leadership posts, including as chairman of the Appropriations Committee.
While he was chairman of the Institutions Committee, he was instrumental in helping the state pay for a permanent corridor for the Long Trail.
Gannett’s fellow senators considered him the conscience of the Senate.
Gannett is survived by a daughter and two sons. Funeral arrangements are incomplete.