Former Missouri Congressman Ike Skelton, a champion of the military who served 17 terms in the U.S. House before losing a re-election bid in 2010, has died. He was 81.
Skelton died Monday at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, Va., surrounded by family and friends, including longtime colleague Russell Orban.
The cause was not immediately released, but Orban says Skelton entered the hospital a week earlier with a cough. Orban confirmed Skelton's death to The Associated Press.
The Lexington, Mo., native was a Democrat and former chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.
Skelton lost to Republican Vicky Hartzler in 2010 in western Missouri's 4th Congressional District. He then joined the law firm of Kansas City-based Husch Blackwell, working in its offices in Kansas City and Washington.
Statement from Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon
A role model to whom I had the honor of presenting Missouri’s highest military honor, the Conspicuous Service Medal, Ike Skelton inspired us all with his quiet dignity and tireless commitment to America’s men and women in uniform,” Gov. Nixon said. “A friend to Missourians, Americans and liberty-loving people worldwide, Congressman Skelton embodied the true meaning of public service and will forever be remembered as a leader who left a legacy of greater prosperity and security for his district, our state and our nation.
Statement from Missouri Democratic Party Chairman Roy Temple
He was a Missourian, a statesman and a champion of a strong and sensible national defense. And above all, he was a gentleman. His love of and faith in America was unshakable and his support for the U.S. military was second to none. This is a loss for Missouri and the nation. We extend our sincerest sympathy to his family.
Tweets from Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.)
It was a great privilege to serve Missouri in the Congress with Ike Skelton and to benefit from his friendship and advice.
— Senator Roy Blunt (@RoyBlunt) October 29, 2013
No member of the Congress was more dedicated to America's defense and those who defend us than Ike Skelton.
— Senator Roy Blunt (@RoyBlunt) October 29, 2013
Ike Skelton loved our country and its history and will be remembered for his contributions to both.
— Senator Roy Blunt (@RoyBlunt) October 29, 2013
Statement from Rep. Lacy Clay (D-Mo.)
Tonight, our nation has lost a remarkable public servant, our state has lost a courageous advocate and I have lost a dear friend. Congressman Ike Skelton was my mentor and among my closest colleagues when I first came to the U.S. House. For 34-years, Ike Skelton was a champion for his district, the State of Missouri and for every brave American who wore the uniform of this country. My family and I send our deepest sympathies to his wife Patty and his wonderful family. I am a better Member of Congress today because I served with Ike Skelton. His legacy of service and devotion to his constituents and our Armed Forces will never be forgotten.
Statement from Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.)
Missouri lost a giant tonight. Ike Skelton represented the very best of Missouri, and fought tirelessly for the state he loved. Those of us lucky enough to call him a friend know that he lived the Missouri values of compromise and common sense. And in his half-century of service, he showed how Missouri could be a leader in contributing to the safety and security of our nation. I join all Missourians in sending my thoughts and prayers to Patty and the rest of Ike’s family. I’ll miss him dearly.
Statement from President Obama
For 34 years, Ike Skelton served the people of Missouri in the United States Congress. He was beloved and respected by his colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and as Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, Ike was a devoted advocate for our men and women in uniform. To many in Congress and across Missouri, Ike was a mentor and a friend, and he will be missed. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to his wife Patty, his family and loved ones.
