PASSINGS : Samuel C. Koupchik; Lifelong Boston Political Figure

Samuel C. Koupchik, an aide to the legendary politician James Michael Curley, whose life was reflected by the character Ditto in the novel “The Last Hurrah.” Koupchik began his political career at age 10 as an errand boy for a Boston ward boss. He held a variety of city and state jobs provided by Curley, who was elected Boston mayor, Massachusetts governor and U.S. senator in the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s. In his later years, Koupchik became a familiar sight on the fourth floor of the Boston Statehouse, using a chair outside the legislative document room as a base of operations for helping lobbyists and journalists. He was never paid for his efforts but was recognized by becoming the only non-elected member of the House and Senate. In Boston on Friday.