Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Former State Senator Darwin L. Booher

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Friday, March 21, 2025, to honor and remember former state Senator Darwin L. Booher. 

“Senator Booher was a dedicated public servant who served his community admirably in the state House and Senate,” said Governor Whitmer. “A champion for rural Michigan, he was always willing to work across the aisle to support farmers and champion our agriculture industry. I was lucky enough to get to know and work with Senator Booher when I served in the legislature, and I appreciated his ability to connect with people and tell great stories. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who worked with and served alongside him.”   

Former state Senator Booher was born and raised in Evart, Michigan, where he graduated from Evart High School. He pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he obtained his degree from the School of Banking. Before joining the legislature, Booher was a bank manager.  

Former state Senator Booher’s journey in public service began with his election as the Osceola Township supervisor and assessor from 1978 to 2004. He continued his career of public service when he was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2004. Booher served three terms representingthe 102nd district. In 2010, he was elected to the state Senate, representing the 35th district. During this time, he chaired the appropriations subcommittees on community colleges and Joint Capital Outlay and served as assistant majority caucus whip. 

Former state Senator Darwin L. Booher is survived by his wife and four children. 

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of former state Senator Darwin L. Booher by lowering flags to half-staff within the State Capitol Complex. To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.     

Flags should be returned to full staff on Saturday, March 22nd.