“Congressman Jim Oberstar was a friend and mentor. He was also a brilliant and kind man. No one knew more about transportation policy than him. Just last Wednesday, I talked with him about strategies to pass a good transportation bill. I will miss him. President Obama said of Oberstar's passing, "Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Congressman Jim Oberstar. Jim cared deeply about the people of Minnesota, devoting his 36 years of service to improving America's infrastructure, creating opportunity for hardworking Minnesotans and building a strong economy for future generations of Americans.