Cayuga County Legislator Steven Netti, 49, died at approximately noon Tuesday, ending a long battle with cancer.

Netti was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2006 and was staying at Matthew House when he passed away.

Netti, a Republican who represented District 15, had served in the Legislature since 1991.

Because of his condition, Netti had not attended a Legislature meeting for more than a year before returning for a meeting last December, when his colleagues gave him a standing ovation.

Before a regularly scheduled meeting Legislature meeting Tuesday, Cayuga County Legislature Chairman Roger Mills led a moment of silence for Netti.

“Steve was a good man, a good husband and a good father,” Mills said. “He was a good representative for District 15 and a good friend to all of us.”

Legislator George Fearon said after the meeting that Netti's “extreme” dedication to his wife and seven children was reflected in his dedication to his constituents.

“He cared for people,” Fearon said. “I think that is part of why he was elected over and over again.”

Funeral arrangements for Netti are being handled by Cheche Funeral Home, Clark Street Road, Auburn.

Calling hours will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, at the funeral home.

Friends are invited to join the family for a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. Saturday in St. Francis of Assisi Church to be offered by the Rev. Eugene Dobosz.