John Palasik, 68, a longtime Milton Police Department officer and legislator, died November 15 after several months of illness. He was reportedly in hospice care at the time of his death.

Palasik, was first elected to the Legislature in 2018, serving two terms.

Palasik had resided in Milton since 1966. He enlisted in the US Army serving 6 years on active duty and 3 years in the Vermont Army National Guard. John was a retired 37-year police officer having served the last 30 years of his career with the Milton Police Department. He also served the town of Milton for 16 years on Milton Rescue and had been a small business owner for 20 years. He served on the Milton Select Board (2016-present) and had been recently elected as a Justice of the Peace.

Palasik was married and has two daughters and a young grandson. In a May press statement announcing his intention to not seek re-election, he cited the need for more family time, especially with his grandson. “While serving in the statehouse I did not have the time to see my grandson every day, and as every grandparent knows that is a gift,” he said.

Gov. Phil Scott said the State House flag will fly at half-mast the day of his interment.

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of Representative John Palasik this morning. Rep. Palasik was a committed public servant, devoting his career to helping others, whether it was in the U.S. Army, Vermont National Guard, Milton Police Department, Milton Rescue, as a State Representative, or the many other local roles he performed,” Scott said.

“John brought his experience and valued perspective to Montpelier, where he always advocated for his community of Milton. We will miss his voice and contributions in the State House.”

“I extend my sincere sympathy to his family, friends, and colleagues. I have ordered the Vermont State Flag to fly at half-staff at the State House on the day of his interment.”

Milton resident Chris Taylor, like Palasik a Republican, and incumbent Chris Mattos were elected to the two-seat district last week.