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Former U.S. Rep., Almost-Marlboro Man Clint Roberts Dies at 82

Rancher represented South Dakota in Congress from 1981 to 1983

Former U.S. Rep. Clint Roberts campaigned for Sen. Mike Rounds in his 2014 campaign. (Rounds for Governor)
Former U.S. Rep. Clint Roberts campaigned for Sen. Mike Rounds in his 2014 campaign. (Rounds for Governor)

Clint Roberts, a former Republican U.S representative from South Dakota, died Sunday at the age of 82.

Roberts served in his role as a congressman for South Dakota’s 2nd Congressional District from 1981 to 1983.

Known sometimes as “Marlboro Man,” Roberts had a short stint as an actor and starred in several commercials and films. He tried out for the role of cigarette maker’s titular cowboy mascot only to be passed over for another actor. Despite this, the nickname managed to stick with Roberts in the years that followed.

In a statement, South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard paid tribute to the former congressman.

 “Throughout his years in the Legislature, in Congress and in state government, Clint brought good humor and common sense to his work,” Daugaard said. “Clint and his family are good friends, and Linda and I extend our thoughts and prayers to Clint’s family.”

Robert’s funeral will be held at First United Methodist Church in Pierre on Friday at 11 a.m. Daugaard has ordered the state’s flags to be flown at half-staff the day of the funeral.

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