Marvin Braude, 85**

According to Rob Wilcox in Controller Laura Chick's office, former Los Angeles City Councilman Marvin Braude has passed away. Chick issued the following statement through Wilcox:

"Marvin Braude was the personification of what a public servant should be. Marvin cared deeply about doing what was right, even if it came with a political cost. I was very fortunate to serve with him on the City Council--he was my mentor and seatmate. The City of Los Angeles is a much better place today because of Marvin Braude."

Neighborhood Council Leader and Assembly Candidate Jim Alger issued the following statement:

I was saddened to learn of the death of former LA City Councilman Marvin Braude was who was the man we can all only aspire to be.

He deeply cared about this great city and did what he felt was right regardless the cost. That type of politician is all too rare.

The City of Los Angeles has lost a true legend, the thoughts and prayers of my family is with his tonight.

City News Service is reporting that Braude, who served on the Council from 1965-1997 died yesterday, according to an unnamed official in Mayor Villaraigosa's office. The cause of death was not known.

Braude's district covered portions of the Valley and the Westside, including Pacific Palisades. He is best known as a staunch enviornmentalist and for leading the charge that eventually led to banning smoking in restaurants and other public places in Los Angeles and eventually, statewide.

Braude's wife of 55 years, Dr. Marjorie Braude, died earlier this year. Braude is survived by two daughters and two grandchildren.

**Update: From KESQ, Channel 3 in Palm Springs
"Daughter Ann Braude says her father died yesterday at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage, where he had undergone surgery for a broken leg after falling the day before Thanksgiving during a family vacation in Palm Springs."