Vento died yesterday morning at the age of 60 after battling a rare form of lung cancer for eight months. Vento was first elected to represent Minnesota's Fourth District in 1976. During his 24 years in Washington, Vento became known as an advocate for the environment, homeless people and refugees. Eighth District DFL Congressman Jim Oberstar served with Vento during his entire tenure. Oberstar presided over a special session of Congress last night where members spoke about Vento. He says Vento represented the people who needed government.