On June 23, 2025, the City of Brooklyn Park City Council passed a resolution to honor the late Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman for their contributions to the Brooklyn Park community.
In reflection of their tireless work, Brooklyn Park Mayor Hollies Winston expressed, “Melissa and Mark led with quiet strength and gave without seeking the cameras or spotlight. Melissa routinely made room for people many don’t often see, all while fighting to give opportunities to families and children at the state level. Their loss hits deep, but what they built in this community and throughout the state will far outlast all of us.”
Brooklyn Park Council member Nichole Klonowski added, “Melissa and Mark Hortman made a lasting impact on our community. Melissa was an important leader — a fierce advocate who championed the rights of women and stood up for those whose voices often went unheard. Her leadership was grounded in compassion, strength, and an unwavering belief in a better future. My heart is with their children as they face this unimaginable loss”
“The loss of Mark and Melissa Hortman is immeasurable. I can only hope to serve in her shadow as a fair, determined, and faithful community member,” said Brooklyn Park Council member Shelle Page. “She will be missed and honored forever.”
The City of Brooklyn Park held a community healing event for residents of the Edinburgh neighborhood on Thursday, June 19. The cities of Brooklyn Park and Champlin later held a joint community healing event, joined by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and representatives from Hennepin County COPE: Mobile Response.
As Brooklyn Park continues to process and grieve the tragic loss of Melissa and Mark Hortman and their dog Gilbert, it also moves forward with a renewed commitment to the values the Hortman family lived by: service, community, and partnership. Their memory will remain a guiding force as the City strives toward a more unified and connected future for all.