Senator George McGovern's health has taken a turn for the worse. His family told KELOLAND News that they admitted him into hospice care in Sioux Falls on Monday.
People from all over the world are keeping the Senator and his family in their thoughts and prayers. But perhaps nowhere has his impact been felt more than in his hometown of Mitchell and on the campus of Dakota Wesleyan University.
McGovern has been a shining figure on the campus of Dakota Wesleyan University for years. A statue of him and his wife welcomes visitors to the McGovern Library.
"He's had a huge impact on the community," senior Ashley Tipton said.
When Tipton heard the news that McGovern is now in hospice care, she thought about a man whose life has been centered around politics.
"Probably the most popular politician in this state, not just with Democrats, but popular amongst both parties and I think that says a lot about his leadership and everything he's done," Tipton said.
Throughout his busy life, McGovern always seemed to find time to visit the campus he once attended and the place he calls home.
"There was a time when he and his dog, Ursa, who was a large dog, would wander around campus and sometimes they'd show up in the cafeteria. He used to eat on campus regularly a few years back, so he really is part of our family here," Vice-President of University Relations Lori Essig said.
In fact, McGovern still has his office here along side a museum dedicated to the one time Presidential candidate.
"The thing that's really wonderful for people who decide to visit in the future is that every station is narrated by Senator McGovern; he is the one telling his life story," Essig said.
A story filled with politics and life-long friendships.
Essig says she had just spoken to McGovern two weeks ago when he called to apologize because he couldn't attend DWU's homecoming parade.
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