Vic Gilliam facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Vic Gilliam
c. 1986
Member of the Oregon House of Representatives from the 18th district
In office January 8, 2007 – January 30, 2017
Preceded by	Mac Sumner
Succeeded by	Rick Lewis
Personal details
Born	(1953-07-21)July 21, 1953 Dover, Ohio, U.S.
Died	June 17, 2020(2020-06-17) (aged 66)
Political party	Republican
Spouse	Becky
Children	2
Education	Warner Pacific University (BA) University of South Carolina (MEd)

Victor Stephen Gilliam (born July 21, 1953 – died June 17, 2020) was an American politician and actor. He served as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives from 2007 to 2017. Vic Gilliam was a member of the Republican Party. He left his political role in 2017 because of health problems.

Before becoming a representative, he worked as an assistant for lawmakers from 1976 to 1981. In 2007, he was chosen to take over a vacant seat in the Oregon House. He served there until he resigned in 2017. Besides politics, Gilliam was also an actor. He appeared in several television shows.

Early Life and Education

Victor S. Gilliam was born on July 21, 1953, in Dover, Ohio. He went to Warner Pacific University. In 1975, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from there. Later, in 1982, he received a Master of Education degree from the University of South Carolina. He also received an honorary Doctor of Law degree in 2016.

Political Career and Public Service

From 1976 to 1981, Vic Gilliam worked as an aide for Mark Hatfield, who was a United States Senator. This job involved helping the senator with his duties. Gilliam was also an actor and a member of the Screen Actors Guild. From 1984 to 1985, he directed alumni relations at Willamette University. This role involved connecting with former students.

Serving in the Oregon House

Vic Gilliam's 1986 state house campaign logo

Vic Gilliam tried to become a state representative a few times before he was elected. In 1986, he ran for the Republican nomination in the 31st district. He was supported by the Statesman Journal newspaper. However, he did not win that election. He also ran in 1987 but was defeated again.

In 2006, the representative for the 18th district, Mac Sumner, resigned due to health issues. On December 27, Vic Gilliam was chosen to fill this open position. County leaders from Marion and Clackamas counties selected him.

Time as a Representative

On January 8, 2007, Vic Gilliam officially became a member of the Oregon House of Representatives. He was assigned to committees that focused on consumer protection and human services.

During his time in the House, Gilliam voted on many important issues. For example, in 2013, he was one of five Republicans who voted to allow some immigrants to receive driver licenses. This showed his willingness to work across party lines on certain topics.

Later Life and Passing

In 2014, Vic Gilliam took part in the Ice Bucket Challenge. This challenge helped raise money for research into amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a serious disease that affects nerve cells.

In November 2015, Gilliam was diagnosed with ALS himself. As his health worsened, he resigned from the House of Representatives on January 30, 2017. Vic Gilliam passed away on June 17, 2020, at the age of 66.

Acting Roles

Vic Gilliam also had a career as an actor. He appeared in several TV shows and a film. Here are some of his acting roles: