Memorial service held for Augustine

As an investigation continued into former Nevada Controller Kathy Augustine's July 11 death, she was described Wednesday at a memorial service as a hard-working public official who remained optimistic despite setbacks.

Family members at the service included her brother, Phil Alfano. But her husband, Chaz Higgs, who cut his wrists in an apparent suicide attempt shortly after Augustine's death at a Reno hospital, wasn't present.

Connie Fent, president of the Nevada Federation of Republican Women, described Augustine as a perfectionist who may have been tough to work for, but since she gave "110 percent" to her job that's what she expected from her employees.

"Kathy was too young to have a heart attack," added Fent. Higgs had said Augustine, 50, suffered a heart attack, although authorities have said she had no obvious signs of heart disease. Autopsy results could be available by the end of the week.

Gene Munnings, who has a nursery and landscaping business in Carson City, said he considered Augustine a friend and mentor. He added her name is still on the Aug. 15 primary ballot, as a candidate for state treasurer, "so I guess we can still vote for her. She might win."

Augustine, term-limited and unable to seek a third four-year stint as controller, had decided to run for the treasurer's job.

She was impeached by the Assembly and convicted by the Senate for using state equipment on her 2002 campaign. She was censured but not removed,

Alfano last week said he was suspicious about the cause of his sister's death, and appealed to the public to come forward with information that may help.