THE Aston electorate has been rocked by the sudden death of its Federal Liberal MP Peter Nugent last week.
A heart attack on April 23 claimed the life of Mr Nugent, 63, who had represented the electorate, which included Forest Hill and Vermont South, since 1990.
He leaves behind his wife Carol and children Deirdre, Greg, Barry, Nicholas, Victoria and Sarah.
The passing of the seemingly healthy MP also struck a deep blow within the political world.
Deakin MP Phil Barresi described Mr Nugent as “an excellent colleague to work with”.
Political opponents were also saddened by his death.
Chisholm MP Anna Burke said: “He was a decent man and a nice bloke. He was charming, dedicated to his community and had a real passion for Aboriginal reconciliation”.
His death raises the prospect of a federal by-election in the heart of the eastern metropolitan marginal seats in an election year.
Mr Nugent’s margin in Aston was 4.24 per cent.